Neymar to miss World Cup qualifiers, says won't be able to wear 'most important shirt'

Rio de Janeiro: 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, who had only recently returned to football after suffering an ACL injury in October 2023, will not be part of the squad. He was replaced by teenage Real Madrid forward Endrick.

"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 expressed on Instagram.

"We had long conversations and everyone knows of my desire to return, but we agreed that it's best not to take any risks and prepare as best as possible to completely eradicate the injury."

Squad adjustments and replacements

In addition to Neymar's absence, Brazil will also be without Manchester City's goalkeeper Ederson and Flamengo's defender Danilo, both ruled out due to fitness concerns. Coach Dorival Júnior confirmed their unavailability in a video published by the Brazil Football Confederation.

Lyon's Lucas Perri will replace Ederson, while Flamengo defender Alex Sandro has been called up in place of Danilo.

Endrick, who has already been capped 13 times for Brazil and scored three goals, has been in promising form for Real Madrid, netting six times in 28 appearances this season.

Brazil’s upcoming matches

Brazil, currently fifth in the 10-team South American group with 18 points from 12 matches, will host Colombia in Brasilia on March 20 before travelling to Buenos Aires to face leaders Argentina on March 25.

Neymar, who rejoined Santos in January from Al-Hilal, has shown glimpses of his old form, scoring three goals and providing three assists in seven matches. 

(Agency inputs)