Brazilian fans have received disappointing news, as star forward Neymar Jr. is unlikely to return during the remaining group-stage matches due to injury.
Latest reports suggest there is almost no chance of him featuring for Brazil national football team before the knockout stage.
The 34-year-old has still not returned to training ahead of Brazil’s second group match against Haiti.
According to ESPN, medical tests conducted a week ago are being repeated as part of his ongoing assessment. Neymar suffered a calf muscle injury while playing for Santos on 17 May.
He was still named in the World Cup squad despite the Grade 2 injury, but has not trained with the team since joining the camp. On Monday, he was seen continuing rehabilitation work at the New York Red Bulls training facility.
Brazil’s medical staff have not yet officially confirmed the latest test results through the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). However, Brazilian media reports suggest that the team is still planning with the expectation that Neymar may only return during the knockout stage, if at all.
