(Photo by Eitan ABRAMOVICH / AFP) (Photo by EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP via Getty Images)

Brazil, Neymar Update Emerges After Rodrygo's Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Mar 4, 2026 5:29 PM ET

The Brazilian national team has lost one of their attacking options in Rodrygo, who suffered an ACL injury that rules him out for the World Cup this summer.

Rodrygo was one of the key players in the Brazilian national team during the World Cup qualifiers over the last few years. With Rodrygo out, many fans ask themselves whether that has given Neymar Jr. a better chance of being a part of the Brazil World Cup roster this summer.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has not called up Neymar since he arrived last year. Neymar has struggled with injuries at Santos FC and returned to full fitness last month.

Neymar Jr of Santos looks on during a Brasileirao 2026 match between Santos and Vasco da Gama at Estadio Urbano Caldeira on February 26, 2026 in Santos, Brazil. (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images

Neymar played three games for Santos over the last few weeks, scoring two goals and providing one assist over those three matches. With Rodrygo out, sources in Brazil suggest that Neymar's chances of earning a call-up to the national team have increased.

Carlo Ancelotti Reportedly Set to Call Up Neymar

UOL Esporte reports that Carlo Ancelotti is seriously considering calling up Neymar to Brazil's squad for the upcoming international break. Brazil will be playing against France and Croatia later this month.

These next two friendly matches are crucial for Brazilian players in earning a spot for the Brazil World Cup roster, which would be Neymar's last opportunity to showcase his ability to contribute to the national team.

Globo reports that even with Rodrygo's injury, that doesn't mean anything when it comes to the importance of having Neymar.

Neymar will play two more games with Santos FC before Ancelotti announces the Brazil squad for the friendly matches against France and Croatia this month. The Brazil squad announcement is set to be on March 16th.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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