What does Neymar need to do to return to the national team? Brazil's coach Dorival Júnior makes it clear
Xtra Time Web Desk: Brazilian national team coach Dorival Júnior has urged patience as Neymar continues to recover from a serious knee injury that has sidelined him since October last year. The Al-Hilal forward is absent from Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Peru in October, and his return might not happen until 2025.
Dorival emphasized that Neymar’s recovery is being handled with caution, with both him and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) willing to wait until the player is fully fit. Neymar, 31, sustained a significant injury to his left knee and has not played competitively in nearly a year.
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"We understand how important Neymar is," said Dorival. "When he returns, we’ll be able to enjoy one of the world’s greatest players at a crucial moment in his career and for Brazil. We will be patient and wait for him."
While the CBF is keeping a close eye on Neymar’s rehabilitation, Dorival clarified that his return timeline will depend on his club, Al-Hilal. Neymar’s coach in Saudi Arabia, Jorge Jesus, has mentioned that he will reassess the situation in January, with hopes for the player to return to action in the AFC Champions League.
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Rodrigo Caetano, the CBF's general coordinator for men’s national teams, also stressed the importance of Neymar’s recovery, noting that the forward’s injury is being treated with the highest level of care. He added that the CBF plans to monitor Neymar’s progress in person later this year.
Despite his long absence, Neymar remains a key figure for Brazil, and his return will be crucial as the team prepares for future competitions. For now, Brazil is focused on their upcoming qualifiers, hoping to continue their strong campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Brazil Squad for October FIFA Qualifiers:
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento, Ederson
Defenders: Danilo, Vanderson, Abner, Guilherme Arana, Bremer, Eder Militao, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos
Midfielders: Andre, Bruno Guimaraes, Gerson, Rodrygo, Lucas Paqueta
Forwards: Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Jesus, Luiz Henrique, Raphinha, Savinho, Vinicius Jr.
