ঢাকা - April 21, 2026, 4:25 pm
It has been almost two years since Neymar last wore the yellow jersey for Brazil. The incident that started it all took place on October 18, 2023, when Uruguay’s midfielder Nicolás de la Cruz collided with him during a World Cup qualifying match in Montevideo. That heavy tackle left Neymar writhing in pain and crying as he was carried off the field on a stretcher — a heartbreaking sight that turned out to be his last appearance for the national team till now.
neymar jr injured 2 years ago | pic: getty image
Later, medical reports confirmed a torn ACL and meniscus in his left leg — a severe injury that kept him sidelined for months. Fans initially believed he would recover soon, but as time passed, doubts began to grow. Would Neymar ever return to represent Brazil again?
Since that injury, Neymar’s career has been plagued by repeated setbacks. He underwent surgery, spent long stretches in rehab, and even after recovery, found himself back on the injury list multiple times. Reports from O Globo show that in the past 731 days, Neymar has spent 529 days out injured — that’s roughly 72% of the time away from football.
During his absence, Brazil hasn’t completely fallen apart. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the team has developed a new attacking rhythm led by Vinícius Jr., Raphinha, and Rodrygo. The numbers tell the story: in 24 matches without Neymar, Brazil recorded 10 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses — scoring 37 goals in total. Instead of relying on one star, the squad now shares the attacking load among several rising players.
Ancelotti has repeatedly stated that “the door is open” for Neymar, but with one strict condition — he must be fully fit. And that’s the issue. Even after joining Santos earlier this year, Neymar has played only 21 out of 37 matches, scoring six goals and assisting three. The inconsistency in his fitness continues to be a major concern ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Brazil’s local analysts suggest that even though Neymar is medically recovered, he hasn’t yet proven himself match-fit. As Carlos Eduardo Mansur explained, there’s a difference between being “healthy” and being “football-fit.” Neymar may no longer be injured, but his dribbling, pace, and stamina are not yet at the elite level needed for international football.
Tactically, Ancelotti’s system demands intense pressing and constant position switching from wingers and attacking midfielders. For Neymar, who now prefers to play centrally as a classic No.10, adapting to this high-tempo role might be difficult. Journalist Leonardo Miranda noted that Neymar “hasn’t played as a winger for a long time,” and players like Vinícius Jr. and Matheus Cunha now occupy those attacking spaces more effectively.
So, the big question remains:
Only time will tell whether the once golden boy of Brazil can reclaim his place — not just in the team, but in the hearts of millions who still believe in his magic.
