Brazil's football federation confirmed Neymar will stay in New Jersey rather than join the squad in Philadelphia for the Group C clash against Haiti. The 34‑year‑old remains at The Ridge hotel and Columbia Park training centre to finish the final phase of his calf rehab. After a brief uniformed appearance at a Morristown practice, he joked with reporters, “Did you miss me?”

Ancelotti’s staff confirmed Neymar is still recovering from a Grade II muscle injury sustained on May 17 while with Santos. A repeat medical exam this week produced no new clearance, prompting the CBF to sit him out of both the Haiti and the final Scotland fixtures. Brazil, fresh from a 1‑1 draw with Morocco, now rely on other stars to secure the knockout berth.

Since tearing his ACL and meniscus in October 2023, Neymar has missed over 700 days of senior duty, returning only for a bench role against Morocco. Coach Ancelotti praised his technical skill and veteran leadership but stressed the priority is full fitness for the knockout round. Consequently, Brazil will contest the Haiti and Scotland matches without Neymar.