Brazil forward Neymar faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup after suffering a grade two calf injury that rules him out of upcoming friendlies. The 34-year-old underwent medical tests revealing a partial tear of muscle fibers, not just swelling as initially reported by his club doctor.

Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed Neymar will miss matches against Panama and Egypt, with an expected recovery window of two to three weeks. Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti already faces absences as Arsenal defender Gabriel and forward Martinelli miss the Panama game due to their Champions League final appearance, while captain Marquinhos is also unavailable.

The injury raises serious questions about Neymar's participation in his fourth World Cup. Despite not playing for Brazil since 2023 amid injury struggles, he was selected ahead of Chelsea's Joao Pedro and Tottenham's Richarlison. His potential absence would be a significant blow to Brazil's title hopes as they begin Group C play against Morocco on June 13.