In a press conference that echoed through the halls of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, national team coach Dorival Junior addressed the burning question on every fan’s mind: When will Neymar return to the Seleção? As Brazil gears up for critical 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the absence of their talismanic forward looms large, prompting a call for patience and understanding from the team’s leadership.
The soccer world held its collective breath when Neymar, Brazil’s golden boy, crumpled to the ground during an international match last October. The diagnosis was grim: a ruptured meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament, injuries that would sideline the star for nearly a year.
We know how important he is,” Dorival emphasized, his voice tinged with both concern and hope. “We’re waiting for him, we need to be patient. It doesn’t matter if he doesn’t return in October, November, or just in February. He has to be confident and fully recovered.”
This sentiment echoes the frustration felt by Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus, who recently confirmed that Neymar, despite returning to training in July, is not yet match-ready. The 32-year-old forward’s journey back to the pitch has been fraught with setbacks and speculation, leaving fans and teammates alike in a state of anxious anticipation.
Brazil’s World Cup Qualification Struggles
As Neymar battles his way back to fitness, the Brazilian national team faces its own uphill climb. With only 10 points from eight qualifiers, including a shocking run of four losses in their past five matches, the five-time world champions find themselves in an unfamiliar position: fifth in the South American standings, precariously close to the playoff spot.
It’s a challenging moment for us,” admitted midfielder Bruno Guimarães, speaking after a training session at the CBF’s Granja Comary complex. “But we have the quality and the determination to turn this around. Every match now is like a final.”
With Neymar’s return still on the horizon, Dorival Junior has been forced to reshuffle his deck. The coach has recalled Barcelona winger Raphinha and Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli, bolstering an already formidable attacking lineup that includes Real Madrid’s trio of Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and the young sensation Endrick.
Brazil’s upcoming fixtures present both opportunity and peril. On October 10, they face Chile in the cauldron of Santiago’s Estadio Nacional. Five days later, they return home to the familiar confines of Brasília’s Mané Garrincha Stadium to take on Peru.
“These matches are crucial,” Dorival stated, his eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. “We respect our opponents, but we also know our capabilities. It’s time for everyone to step up.”
Dorival Junior’s squad selection reflects a delicate balance between seasoned veterans and emerging talents. In goal, the experienced trio of Alisson, Ederson, and Bento provide a solid foundation. The defense, anchored by the likes of Marquinhos and Eder Militao, blends European experience with domestic talent.
In midfield, the creativity of Lucas Paqueta and the tenacity of Bruno Guimarães will be crucial in dictating Brazil’s tempo. Up front, the absence of Neymar opens doors for others to shine, with all eyes on the electric Vinicius Junior and the prodigious Endrick.
It’s an honor to wear this shirt,” said Endrick, the 17-year-old phenom set to join Real Madrid. We’re all here to represent our country and make our people proud. Neymar is a huge inspiration, and we’ll give everything to perform well in his absence.”
Even as he recuperates thousands of miles away, Neymar’s influence on the team remains palpable. Teammates speak of him with reverence, and his jersey still sells out in stores across Brazil.
Ney is more than just a player for us,” explained Rodrygo, Neymar’s teammate at both club and country level. “He’s our leader, our brother. We’re in constant contact with him, and his spirit is with us on the pitch.”
This sentiment is echoed by fans across the nation. In the bustling streets of São Paulo, 28-year-old IT professional Carlos Silva shared, “Of course we miss Neymar, but this is also a chance for other players to step up. Brazil is bigger than any one player.”
As Brazil navigates these crucial qualifiers, the ultimate goal remains clear success at the 2026 World Cup. The tournament, to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents a chance for redemption after recent disappointments.
Every match, every training session, is a step towards our World Cup dream,” Dorival emphasized. “With or without Neymar, we are Brazil. We have a legacy to uphold and a future to build.”
As the team prepares to depart for Santiago, the nation holds its breath. The road to 2026 may be long and winding, but for Brazil, it’s a journey they’re prepared to take, one step at a time.
