Neymar’s Absence in Conmebol Qualifiers 2026 Raises Concerns

Neymar's Injury Impact on Brazil in Conmebol Qualifiers 2026

Real Madrid trio Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick are expected to feature in attack for Brazil in their qualification game for the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Ecuador on Friday, but former Barcelona star Neymar will again be missing for the five-time world champions.

La Seleção have made a stuttering start to their qualifying campaign, with three defeats in their opening six games leaving them sixth in the table, 11 points behind leaders - and arch rivals - Argentina.

They have faced difficulties due to Neymar's absence, who missed their last two qualifiers in 2023, both of which ended in defeat. The 32-year-old tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while playing for Brazil against Uruguay in their fourth qualifier in October 2023. A tearful Neymar was stretchered off the field just before half-time and has not played since.

Initially, there was some hope he might return in time for the 2024 Copa América, but this proved to be too optimistic. He did travel to the United States in support of his international teammates. Neymar has stepped up his recovery in recent weeks. However, Jorge Jesus, the head coach of the Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal, indicated that the Brazilian star won’t be ready to resume full training until November.

Al Hilal faces a roster dilemma as they must finalize their list of players by September 9 for the Saudi Pro League season, which allows for only eight foreign players. With Neymar still on the mend, he could be temporarily omitted from the list before being registered after the winter break in December.

There is a possibility that Neymar could play for Brazil again before returning to Al Hilal, but the November qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay likely come too soon, especially if he hasn’t had any game time beforehand.