Brazilian forward Neymar Jr. has suggested he is close to returning to action for the FIFA World Cup 2026 following his appearance in training ahead of Brazil’s crucial Group C match against Scotland.
The 34-year-old shared multiple images from a training session on X on Sunday with the caption, “Thank you, my God. So incredibly happy!!”
This marks the strongest indication that Neymar is approaching a comeback after a calf injury sidelined him for Brazil’s initial two matches in the tournament held in North America.
Neymar missed Brazil’s opening 1-1 draw with Morocco and their subsequent 3-0 victory over Haiti. That win placed Carlo Ancelotti’s team at the top of Group C, positioning them favourably to advance to the knockout stages.
While the squad travelled to Philadelphia for the Haiti game, Neymar remained at the training base in New Jersey to follow an individual rehabilitation programme. Over the weekend, he resumed on-field activities, engaging in physical exercises and ball drills as part of his recovery.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that Neymar is close to rejoining the full squad and may be available for the Scotland match. “Neymar will be training tomorrow individually and on Monday he’s going to be training with the rest of the team,” Ancelotti said after the Haiti win, according to Reuters. “He will be available for the match against Scotland.”
If selected, the Scotland fixture would be Neymar’s first appearance for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury forced him out for a lengthy period, limiting his participation in Brazil’s World Cup qualification campaign.
The match could also represent a milestone as Neymar’s fourth FIFA World Cup, having previously played in 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments.
Despite injury setbacks, Neymar contributed two goals and three assists in four appearances during qualifying, maintaining influence when fit.
With progression to the knockout rounds within reach, Brazil may gain a significant advantage should their key No. 10 complete his recovery in time for Wednesday’s game against Scotland.