Just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin, Brazilian star player Neymar has found himself with a brutal injury, which he sustained during Sunday's 3-0 defeat to Coritiba. While medical teams are constantly monitoring his situation, the timing of his injury has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Neymar's Injury Sparks Controversy
The 34-year-old star player Neymar is reportedly set to miss matches against San Lorenzo and Gremio, as many feel he is "faking it". A fan took to X and posted, "Trust me, there's no injury, he just wants to start resting and training for the World Cup. We've seen this play script before."
Another fan wrote, "Neymar actually faked this injury to avoid any injury before the World Cup. It's a smart move…Let him rest those legs and muscles and be in good shape for the World Cup tournament."
A third fan commented, "Injured weeks before a World Cup is the most Neymar thing that could ever happen. You can set your watch by this man."
A fourth fan noted, "Guys, he's just saving his body for the WC, use your brain... Don't just take this opportunity to jump on him for João Pedro. Do y'all really think Neymar will take the chance to get injured?"
Will Neymar Be Fit Enough for the World Cup?
While Neymar has stayed away from commenting on such controversial speculations, interestingly, the Santos head of medical, Rodrigo Zogaib, has confirmed that the star player will be fit enough by May 27, when he is scheduled to start prepping for the World Cup. However, a few hours ago, a report from ESPN noted, "Sources have told ESPN that the swelling in Neymar's right calf is not minor and that the required recovery time may be longer than initially stated."
The report added, "Hence, it's unlikely that the Santos forward will be fit to play in the warm-up games against Panama and Egypt, on May 31 and June 5, respectively."
However, the Brazilian medical team has not weighed in on Neymar's situation, as a decision about him will reportedly be taken on May 27. Fans and experts alike are waiting to see if Neymar will be ready for the World Cup or if this injury will keep him out of the tournament.
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