The 34-year-old forward has not yet returned to full training and will be unavailable when Brazil begin their campaign against Morocco on Saturday.
Ancelotti revealed that Neymar is expected to resume training with the squad next week, which also puts his participation in Brazil’s second Group F fixture against Haiti on June 20 in doubt.
Brazil will complete their group-stage campaign against Scotland on June 24.
Ancelotti hopeful of Neymar’s return
Speaking about the veteran forward’s condition, Ancelotti said Neymar is working hard to regain fitness and rejoin the squad as soon as possible.
The Italian coach stressed that Neymar’s importance goes beyond his footballing ability, highlighting the experience and leadership he brings to a young Brazilian squad.
“When we call up Neymar, we call him not only for his technical quality, which is indisputable, but also for his experience and the example he can set for the young players in this group,” Ancelotti said.
Injury struggles continue for Brazil’s record scorer
Neymar has not represented Brazil since 2023 due to a series of injury setbacks. Despite concerns over his fitness, Ancelotti included the Santos forward in his World Cup squad ahead of players such as João Pedro and Richarlison.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star remains Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 international appearances, surpassing the record previously held by the legendary Pele.
Fourth World Cup appearance on hold
If he recovers in time to feature later in the tournament, Neymar will be appearing at his fourth FIFA World Cup. He previously represented Brazil at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions.
For now, Brazil will have to begin their quest for a sixth world title without one of the most influential players in the nation’s football history.
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