We think he can make it for the first World Cup match. If he can’t make the first one, he will be ready for the second," Ancelotti began by saying. "I spoke about being one hundred percent physically fit,

Brazil star Neymar is on course to shake off a calf strain and could even be ready for their opening match of the World Cup, coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Saturday. Former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar,

Santos will be playing their final group stage match in the Copa Sudamericana against Deportivo Cuenca tonight. Santos are fourth in Group D, but a win over Deportivo Cuneca can see them go second and advance to the knockout stage.

Concern has rapidly spread through the national team camp after fresh developments surrounding the Santos forward’s physical condition created uncertainty just days before the tournament begins. Carlo Ancelotti and Neymar were expected to reunite at the perfect moment ahead of Brazil’s latest World Cup campaign.

Santos have issued an official statement addressing concerns over a medical disagreement regarding Neymar’s calf injury ahead of the 2026 World Cup.