Brazil midfielder Casemiro was the first player to address the media in Teresópolis as the national team stepped up preparations for the 2026 World Cup, but much of the attention centred around Neymar’s injury situation rather than his own role. The Manchester United midfielder faced repeated questions regarding the forward, who is currently recovering from a grade two muscle injury in his right calf.
Key Highlights
- Neymar is currently sidelined with a grade two calf injury and could miss Brazil’s opening World Cup match against Morocco.
- Casemiro insisted Neymar can still be Brazil’s main figure despite growing questions over his role.
- Brazil’s medical staff are working to have Neymar fit in time for the tournament opener.
- The Seleção are aiming to bounce back after consecutive World Cup quarter-final exits.
Casemiro urges patience over Neymar recovery
Casemiro initially laughed off the constant focus on Neymar before stressing the importance of having the star attacker fully fit for the tournament.
"Every time I come here, I have to talk about him," Casemiro joked, though he quickly turned serious when discussing the forward's fitness. "It was actually good that the doctor came here so there wouldn't be so many questions about him. Of course, no player likes to be injured, but I hope he is healthy enough to play; we need everyone. The evolution goes day by day and we are anxiously waiting for all players to be available. Everyone is important, including Neymar."
While Neymar is expected to miss between two and three weeks, concerns are growing that he may not recover in time for Brazil’s opening World Cup clash against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey.
‘He can still be the protagonist’
Casemiro also pushed back against suggestions that Neymar is no longer capable of leading Brazil on the biggest stage.
"That's you saying it, that he won't be the protagonist," Casemiro replied when questioned about Neymar's influence. "A player, despite knowing what he does on the pitch, every one of them wants to have the protagonist role. That question is for Neymar, for the Mister... we know his quality. He is taking care of the injury, he wants to get back to training first. It has to be in stages. Get healthy again, get back to playing, and then think about being the protagonist. Think about health."
Brazil’s medical staff are reportedly working intensively to ensure the 34-year-old is at least available from the bench if he cannot fully recover in time for the opener.
Brazil seeking redemption in North America
Neymar’s absence would represent a significant setback for the Seleção, given his experience and influence at major tournaments. The forward has featured in 13 World Cup matches and scored eight goals across previous editions.
Brazil are entering the tournament determined to bounce back after suffering quarter-final exits in the last two World Cups.
There is also growing optimism surrounding the team’s return to North America, with many supporters drawing inspiration from the 1994 World Cup in the United States — the last time Brazil lifted the trophy.
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