Neymar will not play in Brazil's opening World Cup match against Morocco on Saturday, according to Carlo Ancelotti.
Due to a calf injury, the 34-year-old has not yet resumed full training.
The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain attacker will begin practising with the team next week, according to manager Ancelotti, so his availability for Brazil's second game, against Haiti on June 20, is uncertain.
On June 24, Brazil's group campaign comes to an end against Scotland.
Ancelotti said, “Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible."
“The expectation is that he will recover and rejoin the group next week. When we call up Neymar, we do so not only for his indisputable technical quality but also for his experience and the example he sets for the young players in this group,” he added.
Neymar has not played for the Selecao since 2023 amid his struggles with injuries but was selected for the World Cup ahead of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro and Tottenham forward Richarlison.
He has scored 79 goals in 128 caps and is Brazil’s record goalscorer, surpassing Pele’s total of 77.
The Santos forward could play at a fourth World Cup, having also represented Brazil in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.
