Rodrygo injury opens World Cup slot, but Neymar’s Brazil return still hinges on fitness | OneFootball

Rodrygo’s knee injury has opened a World Cup squad place, but it changes little for Neymar’s prospects with Brazil. According to Globo.com, the Santos No 10 will only be in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans if his fitness allows.

The Real Madrid forward, also a Menino da Vila, has a right knee ligament injury and will not recover before June. He had been viewed as a near-certainty under Ancelotti during this cycle.

Brazil’s staff view Neymar as an exceptional case, not in direct competition for a slot. If he is in good physical condition, his inclusion becomes more likely.

Ancelotti has not yet coached him with Brazil, yet he often discusses the forward in interviews, reiterating that selection depends solely on his physical state.

Neymar does not need to prove himself, but must be far fitter than last year to keep pace and contribute at the World Cup.

On Friday, Ancelotti will name a preliminary squad for friendlies against France and Croatia at the end of March, with the final list due on 16 March.

Neymar could be in the preliminary picks, though it is unclear if he makes the final friendly squad. Since returning from left knee meniscus surgery he has played 45 minutes against Velo Clube and 90 against Novorizontino, both without scoring, then 90 against Vasco with two goals.

He is due back on 10 March away to Mirassol in round five of the Campeonato Brasileiro. His last Brazil appearance was in October 2023.

Source: Globo.com