Veteran forward Neymar will miss Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina due to a thigh injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed on Friday.
The 33-year-old has not played for the national team since October 2023, following a serious knee injury. He had been hopeful of making his return to international football, but medical assessments determined that he was not fit enough to compete.
In Neymar’s absence, teenage Real Madrid forward Endrick has been called up as his replacement.
“The return seemed so close, but unfortunately I won’t be able to wear the most important shirt in the world for the moment,” Neymar wrote on Instagram.
“We had long conversations, and everyone knows how much I wanted to be back. But we agreed that it’s best not to take any risks and to prepare properly so that I can fully recover,” he added.
Brazil are set to face Colombia in Brasília on 20 March, followed by a crucial match against Argentina in Buenos Aires five days later.
The five-time World Cup winners currently sit fifth in the 10-team South American qualifying group with 18 points from 12 matches, trailing leaders Argentina by seven points.
Since returning to his boyhood club Santos from Al-Hilal in January, Neymar has shown glimpses of his best form. In seven matches, he has scored three goals—including a spectacular direct strike from a corner—and provided three assists in the Brazilian top flight.
The CBF also announced two additional squad changes. Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri and Flamengo defender Alex Sandro have been drafted in to replace Manchester City’s Ederson and Flamengo right-back Danilo, both of whom have withdrawn due to injury.
Endrick, who has already been capped 13 times for Brazil and scored three goals, has netted six times in 28 appearances for Real Madrid this season. His inclusion in the squad provides a fresh attacking option as Brazil look to strengthen their position in the qualifiers.
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