FIFA World Cup: Neymar returns to full fitness, available for Brazil's Scotland test

After almost three years away from the national team, Neymar was recalled by Carlo Ancelotti for the FIFA World Cup.

Updated on: Jun 24, 2026, 10:15:30 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Neymar is set to return and is available for Brazil's third and final FIFA World Cup group stage fixture against Scotland. But Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti didn't reveal if the Santos attacker will be in action at the Miami Stadium.

Neymar is set to feature against Scotland after recovering from an injury. (AFP)

After almost three years away from the national team, Neymar was recalled by Ancelotti for the World Cup, but hasn't made an appearance yet due to a calf injury.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup: Ante Budimir scores as Croatia stay alive, Panama knocked out

‘Neymar is available’

Speaking to reporters, Ancelotti said, "Neymar is available. He worked this week and can be available for the match. We are very happy that he is back because, obviously, with his quality, he can help the team."

"I've really got to know him well. He has worked very seriously, trying to recover as quickly as possible.

"I'm very happy with him. Even if he doesn't play, he brings experience, he brings knowledge of the game, he helps the younger players. He is doing very well."

When asked about how many minutes Neymar could play, Ancelotti joked, "He can play 90 minutes - walking. No, he's fine, he worked very well, he trained very well."

All eyes will be on the Brazilian XI, as many fans hope to see Neymar in action. At an event last week, Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula de Silva made a joke at the former Barcelona player's expense, calling him a work-from-home player.

Meanwhile, midfielder Lucas Paqueta has maintained that Neymar is still an important member. "He is a very important player for the national team," he said.

"He has an extraordinary history with this shirt and he can still help us a lot. We hope he'll be available as soon as possible to contribute to the team."

Meanwhile, Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, who was among the people calling for Neymar's selection, said, "Having him with the group is very important for all of us."

"He is my idol and has always given me a lot of support. I hope he comes back for the next game (against Scotland) and helps us throughout the World Cup."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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