Neymar looks on during a Brazilian league football match between Santos and Coritiba on May 17. | Photo Credit: AFP

Brazilian side Santos confirmed that its star forward Neymar has suffered a calf injury that will put him out of selection contention for the team’s upcoming games.

Rodrigo Zogaib, the medical team head Santos, confirmed that Neymar suffered an edema that has caused a swelling in his right calf during a 3-0 home defeat against Coritiba on Sunday.

On Tuesday, Neymar was picked in Brazil’s 26-member squad for the FIFA World Cup, marking his first selection during head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s reign.

ANALYSIS: Neymar returns to Brazil national team, but can he inspire the Seleção to a sixth World Cup?

Zogaib added that Neymar is expected to recover in time for the Brazil’s pre-tournament camp.

“According to our planning, his progress will allow him to be fit next week when he will join up with the national team,” said Zogaib.

Ahead of the World Cup, Brazil will play two international friendlies – against Panama on June 1 and against Egypt on June 6.

Published on May 21, 2026