United States
United Kingdom
The current Brazilian side are one of the favourites to win the World Cup under Tite this summer. The Selecao have arguably the most talented group of players they have had in a decade heading a World Cup.
The most talented and the poster boy of the Brazilian game is undoubtedly PSG striker Neymar. However, the 26-year-old experienced a massive setback on Sunday, as he sustained a metatarsal injury in the Parisians 3-0 win over Marseille. The forward was carried off the pitch on a stretcher and was visibly upset.
Father says he will be out for at least six weeks
There seems to be differing reports about the extent of the injury from various different corners. PSG boss Unai Emery has stated that the forward could be fit to face Real Madrid in the Champions League on March 6th, a tie which PSG trail 3-1 from the first leg in the Bernabeu.
However, Neymar’s father was more specific telling ESPN Brasil: “PSG know that they will not be able to count on Neymar for the upcoming matches: his treatment will last six to eight weeks, whether there is an operation or not,”
It seems there is slight confusion over the injury. However, if the forward is sidelined for six to eight weeks as his father has stated, then he will have very time to recover from the injury before the World Cup.
A big blow for Brazil, Neymar and the World Cup
Neymar is sure to be at the World Cup, unless he sustains another bad injury before June. However, he may not be fully fit for Russia 2018 and that would be a sad state of affairs for the player, his national team and the tournament itself. Neymar is box office, the sort of player who the fans pay good money to watch, even if he is rather theatrics at times when challenged for the ball.
The World Cup is the sort of tournament where fans want the best players in the world to feature and impress. While Neymar may be on the pitch, he may not be at pull pelt. That would be a shame because at 26 years old, he is at his peak. In four years’ time, at the next World Cup he may not be the same dynamic player.
Brazil ones to watch at World Cup 2018
Hopefully Neymar will recover and star for Brazil, as the Selecao have become many peoples second favourite team over the years in World Cup. The South American giants have produced some wonderful teams and players in recent history.
The 2018 vintage has the players to leave a lasting mark on the competition. Tite’s team will be one of the teams to watch in Russia. The likes of likes Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino are all exciting players to watch. Even without Neymar at his best, Brazil have some very tasty options.
However, every World Cup winning team needs a hero and if Brazil are to lift the trophy this July in Russia, then the Selecao need their star player fully fit and firing.
Will Neymar be fully-fit for the World Cup?
