MRI report gives relief, Neymar recovering quickly from injury

Brazil's all-time top scorer Neymar is recovering well from his calf injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said. The results of an MRI scan on Monday indicated positive progress in his rehabilitation process.

"Neymar is progressing well with his treatment. He will continue to train according to the rehabilitation and fitness program set by the Brazil team's medical staff," the CBF said in a statement.

Neymar has been fighting to be fully fit for the tournament since suffering a calf muscle injury late last month. Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday.

However, the 34-year-old star did not take to the field for the team's training on Monday. During the training session held at the new training center of MLS club New York Red Bulls, located west of New York, he did not go on the field with his teammates, but did separate fitness training in the gym.

Neymar has not played for the Brazilian national team since October 2023. The main reason for this was injury and fitness problems. The Brazilian football team has been training in Rio de Janeiro since May 27 ahead of the World Cup. However, Neymar is still unable to take the field with his teammates due to his injury.

Although it will take time, there is no possibility of replacing him. Ancelotti said before arriving at the World Cup, "Neymar will be with us until he recovers. We think he can be ready for the first match of the World Cup. If not, he will be ready for the second match. It is certain that no alternative will be taken in his place."

Neymar, Brazil's all-time top scorer, is currently suffering from a grade-2 calf strain. This is a moderate injury, similar to a partial tear in the leg muscle. However, the Brazil team's coaching staff is optimistic that the 34-year-old forward will be fully fit before the team's World Cup opening match against Morocco on June 13.

The five-time world champions will play Morocco in Group C, followed by Haiti (June 19) and Scotland (June 24). Now Brazil fans are waiting to see whether Neymar will return to the field in the opening match against Morocco, or whether he will have to wait a few more days for his return.