Neymar's Brazil return ruined by yet another injury as head coach Dorival Junior confirms Santos star's axe, with Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick replacing veteran ace

Brazil fans were buzzing earlier this month after Dorival Junior named Neymar in the latest Brazil squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches. The Santos star, who rekindled his love for football following his move from Al-Hilal to Santos in January, was all set to represent the Selecao for the first time since 2024 but a thigh injury has now delayed his return to the national team.

"After the evaluations carried out, these players—Neymar Jr., Danilo, and Ederson—are in a recovery process with their respective clubs. Therefore, they won't be ready to represent Brazil in the upcoming FIFA qualifier matches," Brazil head coach Dorival Junior said in a statement.

With the 33-year-old out with injury, Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick has been called up to the national team. Alex Sandro and Lucas Perri, on the other hand, have been named as replacements for Danilo and Ederson. Neymar's last appearance for Brazil was back in September 2023 against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifying match where he suffered an ACL injury and remained sidelined for more than a year.

Brazil are scheduled to face Colombia on March 21 and five days later they will lock horns against arch-rivals and reigning world champions Argentina.