Injured Neymar ruled out of Brazil World Cup qualifiers

IANS March 15, 2025 146 views

Brazil's star forward Neymar has been ruled out of critical World Cup qualifying matches against Colombia and Argentina due to ongoing injury concerns. The 33-year-old player, who hasn't played for the national team since October, made the difficult decision to prioritize his recovery and long-term fitness. Real Madrid's young talent Endrick will replace Neymar in the national squad, bringing fresh energy to the team. Brazil remains in a challenging position in the qualifying group, currently sitting fifth and seven points behind leaders Argentina.

"We had long conversations and everyone knows of my desire to return" - Neymar
Rio de Janeiro, March 15: Veteran forward Neymar will miss Brazil's World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina due to a thigh injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said on Friday.

Key Points

1

Neymar sidelined after knee injury since October 2023

2

Endrick called up as replacement for Brazil squad

3

Brazil currently fifth in South American qualifying group

4

Forward recently returned to Santos FC after Al-Hilal stint

The 33-year-old, who has not played for Brazil since October 2023 because of a knee injury, was replaced by teenage Real Madrid forward Endrick, reports Xinhua.

"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 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," he added.

Brazil will meet Colombia in Brasilia on March 20 and Argentina in Buenos Aires five days later. The five-time world champions are currently fifth in the 10-team South American group with 18 points from 12 qualifiers, seven points behind leaders Argentina.

Neymar has shown glimpses of his best form since returning to his original club Santos from Al-Hilal in January. In seven matches, the forward has scored three goals - including a stunning direct strike from a corner - and provided three assists for the Brazilian top-flight side.

The CBF also announced that Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri and Flamengo defender Alex Sandro had replaced Manchester City's Ederson and Flamengo right-back Danilo in Brazil's squad.

Endrick, who has been capped 13 times for Brazil and scored three goals, has netted six times in 28 outings for Real Madrid this season.

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