Neymar has been left out of Brazil's squad for the Copa America as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury, the country's football confederation said on Friday, reported Xinhua.
Neymar has not played since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus of his left knee in October and the 32-year-old was given little chance of being fit for the tournament in the United States, which begins on June 20.
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro and Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison also missed out, having struggled with poor form and injuries at their respective clubs.
As expected, manager Dorival Junior named Real Madrid-bound Palmeiras teenager Endrick in his 23-man squad.
The forward, who will join Real Madrid when he turns 18 in July, scored for Brazil in a 1-0 win over England at Wembley Stadium and in a 2-2 draw against Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu in March.
Brazil will begin their Copa America campaign against Costa Rica in Los Angeles on June 24 and will also meet Paraguay and Colombia in the group stage.
Brazil squad:
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City) Bento (Athletico Paranaense)
Defenders: Danilo (Juventus), Yan Couto (Girona), Guilheme Arana (Atletico Mineiro), Wendell (Porto), Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Eder Militao (Real Madrid), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa), Joao Gomes (Wolverhampton), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham)
Forwards: Endrick (Palmeiras), Evanilson (Porto), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Raphinha (Barcelona), Savinho (Girona), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid).
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
It’s unfortunate that Neymar won’t be able to play in the Copa America due to his injury. Hopefully, he can fully recover and come back stronger. I believe the Brazil squad still has a solid lineup to compete well in the tournament.
It’s disappointing to not see Neymar in the Brazil squad for Copa America, but his recovery should be the top priority. Hope he comes back stronger for future competitions. Excited to see the young talent like Endrick getting an opportunity to shine on the international stage!
I think it’s a wise decision to leave Neymar out of the squad considering his recent injury. It’s crucial for players to fully recover before returning to the field to avoid further complications. I’m looking forward to seeing how the new additions, like Endrick, will perform in the upcoming Copa America matches.
I think it’s a wise decision to not include Neymar in the Brazil squad for Copa America considering his ongoing recovery from a serious injury. It’s important to prioritize his health and not rush his return to the field. Looking forward to seeing the young talents like Endrick shine in his absence.
Do you think Brazil’s squad still has a strong chance in the Copa America without Neymar, Casemiro, and Richarlison?