Brazilian superstar Neymar has suffered a minor calf injury but is still expected to join Brazil’s World Cup training camp ahead of next month’s tournament in North America.

The 34-year-old forward was included in Brazil’s squad earlier this week, marking his return to the national team after a lengthy injury absence that disrupted much of the qualifying campaign.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti had faced intense scrutiny over whether to recall Neymar, who has struggled with recurring fitness issues in recent years.

However, the Italian tactician opted to include the experienced forward as Brazil pursue a record-extending sixth World Cup title.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, is preparing to play at his fourth World Cup tournament.

Speaking on the player’s condition, Santos head of medical services Rodrigo Zogaib described the injury as minor.

“Neymar has a minor calf injury, an oedema, but according to our planning, his progress will allow him to be fit next week when he joins the national team,” Zogaib said.

The former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain F.C. attacker has not played for Brazil since 2023.

His spell with Al Hilal SFC was heavily disrupted by injuries before he returned to boyhood club Santos FC last year.

Neymar recently missed Santos’ 2-2 draw with San Lorenzo de Almagro in the Copa Sudamericana due to the latest injury concern.

Brazil will open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey before facing Haiti and Scotland in Group C.

The five-time world champions are also scheduled to play warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt before the tournament begins.