Just days after being named in Brazil's World Cup squad, Neymar has been sidelined with a minor calf injury, raising fresh concerns about his readiness for the tournament. The 34-year-old, who will be playing at his fourth World Cup, sustained the problem during Santos's defeat to Coritiba over the weekend. While the Brazilian Football Confederation has downplayed the severity, describing it as an edema in the right calf, the setback has reignited debate over the wisdom of Carlo Ancelotti's decision to recall the country's all-time leading scorer after a prolonged injury layoff.

View from São Paulo is increasingly anxious. Brazilian media, while celebrating Neymar's return to the national setup, have been quick to point out the stakes: should Brazil fail to win a record-extending sixth title, Neymar risks being remembered as the nation's biggest World Cup underachiever. The UOL portal noted that only eight Brazilians have played in four tournaments, and Neymar's inclusion was questioned by some who argued he earned his place on reputation rather than current form. In Buenos Aires, meanwhile, Santos's limp 2-2 draw with San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana—a match Neymar missed—was seen as evidence of his club's over-reliance on him.

Away from the pitch, Panini has confirmed that Neymar will feature in the official World Cup sticker album, using its 'completion kit' system to update squads after the editorial deadline—a small but symbolic boost for collectors and fans. Yet the real test awaits in Teresópolis, where Neymar is due to report next week. CBF president Samir Xaud has insisted that Ancelotti retains full autonomy over the player's fitness, but the clock is ticking. With the World Cup opening on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Brazil's hopes may once again hinge on the fragile hamstrings of its mercurial talisman.