Confirmed: Brazilian Footballer Neymar to Miss 2024 Copa America in the US Owing to Severe Knee Injury

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar has been declared unavailable for the 2024 Copa America, following a medical statement released on Wednesday, December 20. Neymar sustained an injury during the international break in October and had to undergo surgery on his knee. This injury means that Neymar, who now plays for Al-Hilal, will be out of action for approximately 10 months. Consequently, he will miss the special edition of the Copa America set to take place in the USA. The injury also sidelines him from crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2024.

Brazil Team Doctor Comments on Neymar’s Recovery
Rodrigo Lasmar, the doctor for the Brazilian football team, emphasized the importance of a cautious recovery approach. Speaking to Brazil’s Rede 98, Lasmar stated that they are aiming for Neymar’s return at the beginning of the 2024 European season, which starts in August. He stressed that rushing the recovery could be risky and that it’s crucial to adhere to the nine-month recovery timeline typically associated with knee ligament surgeries. Lasmar expressed hope that after a thorough recovery, Neymar would be able to perform at a high level once again.

Impact on the Brazilian Team
Neymar’s absence is a significant setback for Brazil’s national team. In his absence, younger players like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo from Real Madrid are expected to step up and lead the team’s scoring efforts. Neymar had an eventful year in 2023, leaving Paris Saint-Germain in June shortly after Lionel Messi’s departure to Inter Miami.

Neymar had been anticipated to play a crucial role in Al-Hilal’s Champions League campaign. Unfortunately, he suffered a severe injury, tearing the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay on October 17. He underwent surgery two weeks following the injury.

As Brazil’s top goal scorer with a record of 79 goals, surpassing Pele’s 77, Neymar’s absence will be keenly felt by the national team as they navigate through upcoming tournaments and qualifiers.