Brazil’s national football team is set to face Ecuador in a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier on June 5, 2025, at the Estadio Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo in Guayaquil. However, fans will be disappointed to learn that Neymar Jr., Brazil’s all-time top scorer, will not be part of the squad for this highly anticipated match. Here’s a detailed look at why Neymar is absent.
Reason for Neymar’s Absence
Neymar’s absence from the Brazil squad for the upcoming qualifier stems from a muscle injury he suffered in April 2025 while playing for his boyhood club, Santos. Although he was included in a 50-man preliminary squad for the match, new Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti decided not to include him in the final 26-man roster, citing the need for Neymar to fully recover before returning to international duty. Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar’s recent return to competitive football was too soon for the rigors of a high-stakes qualifier.
Ancelotti confirmed he spoke with Neymar, stating, “Neymar’s out of the list as he’s just returned from injury. I spoke to Ney and we’ve agreed on this. I trust Neymar, I count on him, we want him to arrive in best conditions to the World Cup.” This cautious approach reflects Brazil’s long-term strategy to ensure their star player is in peak condition for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s Injury History
Neymar has faced significant injury challenges in recent years, most notably a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus injury sustained during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. This injury sidelined him for nearly 17 months, causing him to miss key international tournaments, including the 2024 Copa América. After returning to Santos in January 2025, Neymar showed flashes of brilliance, scoring three goals and providing two assists in seven matches. However, the muscle injury in April 2025 set back his progress, prompting Ancelotti to prioritize his recovery over an immediate return.
