Neymar ruled out of Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers, Endrick named as replacement | OneFootball

Brazilian superstar Neymar has been ruled out of the World Cup qualifying games this month due to a thigh injury, confirmed by La Selecao.

The Santos star was named in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina, marking his return to the national team for the first time in nearly two years.

Neymar rejoined boyhood club Santos on a six-month contract in January after terminating his contract with Al-Hilal.

The 33-year-old made a promising start, racking up three goals and three assists in seven games, but suffered a thigh issue during the game against Bragantino at the beginning of the month.

When Neymar was included in Brazil’s squad, there were high expectations, but his bad luck with injuries continues to be a stumbling block in his career.

This further casts doubt on his aspirations of participating in the World Cup 2026.

Real Madrid’s teenage prodigy Endrick has been named as Neymar’s replacement.

The 18-year-old joined the Spanish giants last summer and has scored twice in 24 appearances.

Endrick has already garnered 13 senior caps with La Selecao. He netted his maiden goal in a friendly win against England last year and was also part of the 2024 Copa America squad.

Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson and Flamengo’s Danilo have also been left out of the squad due to injuries, with Lyon’s Lucas Perri and Alex Sandro of Flamengo named as their replacements.

Brazilian head coach Dorival Junior will rely on the attacking duo of Vinicius Junior and Raphinha, who have been in sensational form this season.

La Selecao, who are fifth in the South American World Cup qualifying table, will play Colombia on March 20 and Argentina five days later.