Neymar's Thigh Oedema Diagnosis Raises Concerns for Upcoming Brazil Matches

Neymar suffers thigh injury

Neymar's return to the Brazilian national team is in doubt after a thigh oedema diagnosis. The star player felt pain during an activity, and tests confirmed the injury.

Brazilian superstar Neymar has been ruled out of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina due to a thigh injury. Santos FC, Neymar's current club, informed the CBF (Brazil's football federation) that he suffered a thigh oedema after feeling pain during an activity on Thursday. After undergoing tests, the injury was confirmed, putting his return to the Brazilian national team in doubt.

Neymar's absence will be significant for Brazil, who are currently in fifth place in South American World Cup qualifying. Coach Dorival Junior had recalled Neymar to the national team after his impressive performances for Santos. With Neymar out, Real Madrid's Endrick will likely take his place in the squad. Brazil's coach will announce the final squad next Monday.

Neymar has expressed his disappointment at missing the games, stating that he had been working towards a return to the national team. Despite this setback, he remains determined to represent Brazil in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His contract with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia is set to expire in six months, and Neymar's focus is on regaining his form and fitness to achieve his goal of playing in the World Cup.

Neymar's return to Santos is imminent, with the star player expected to rejoin the team soon. Although the exact date of August 31st is mentioned for his potential comeback in a match against Fluminense at Vila Belmiro, details around his return are becoming clearer. Neymar has already begun his treatment and will undergo medical assessments upon rejoining the team.

Neymar's Recent Performance

Neymar has been on a roll, playing seven consecutive matches of 90 minutes, a streak he hadn't achieved in a long time. His impressive form continued in Santos' 2-1 comeback win over Cruzeiro at the Mineirao, where he played almost the entire match before being substituted in stoppage time. This recent performance is part of his 19 appearances this year, with six goals scored.

It's worth noting that Neymar's injury update might affect his participation in the upcoming match against Bahia. Santos' fans will be eager to see him in action, given his recent performance.

Santos next take to the field this Sunday, when they visit Bahia at Fonte Nova in the 21st round of the Serie A Brasileirao.

Brazil in third place in South American qualifying with 25 points and already guaranteed a place in the World Cup, the Brazilian national team host Chile on September 4th at the Maracana.

Brazil will then visit Bolivia on the 9th in El Alto.