Neymar will be an 'important player' for Brazil ahead of 2026 World Cup as Dorival Junior delivers encouraging update on Al-Hilal star's recovery from ACL injury

The Brazilian football federation (CBF) is hopeful for Neymar's return in the upcoming months, which would be a crucial reinforcement for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Selecao are currently sixth in the qualification table and the availability of the forward will be a major boost to their forward line, which had been thoroughly unimpressive in the Copa America.

According to ESPN, Neymar will not be available during the FIFA international window in September but could feature in October when Brazil play Chile away from home and Peru in front of their fans. However, Dorival refrained from setting a specific timeline for Neymar's return, emphasising the need for careful monitoring and gradual progress.

In an interview with ESPN, Dorival said: "I don’t want to set a time frame, nor do I have the authority to do so, but he is being monitored very closely and is progressing. I think it was a very delicate injury, it wasn’t as simple as people think. He needs to be as careful as possible and, in my opinion, not rush his return at any time. If he has to wait a little longer for this strengthening work, I would do so. After having waited all these months, I don’t think another one or two months would be a problem. It’s a very important precaution.”

Nonetheless, the manager stressed that Neymar is an invaluable asset to the Brazilian side and added: "Neymar is above average, everyone knows that and it is natural that he will be an important player."

Neymar's last competitive appearance dates back to October last year, when he suffered a significant knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in Montevideo. The rupture of his knee ligaments has kept him out of action since then and the record goal-scorer for Brazil has been undergoing a rigorous recovery process.

As Neymar continues his rehabilitation, the Brazilian team remains hopeful yet cautious. The focus is on ensuring that Neymar's return is timed perfectly to avoid any setbacks. With the World Cup qualifiers intensifying, having a fully fit Neymar could be the difference-maker for Brazil.