Why didn’t Neymar Jr. play for Brazil against Colombia in Copa América?

The former Barcelona and PSG star is absent for group stage finale and will not feature this summer in the United States.

Brazil played Colombia in their final Copa América group stage game Tuesday night, which ended in a 1 - 1 draw. Both teams advance to the next round. Brazil will face Uruguay in the quarter finals and Colombia go up against Panama.

La Selecao, as always, is of the favourites to lift the trophy and they boast many of the world’s most coveted attacking talents. Real Madrid duo Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes look set to start for Brazil, while 17-year-old sensation Endryck is pushing for a starting berth.

However one name that will not feature this summer is Neymar Jr., after the former Barcelona star suffered a serious knee injury last October. Neymar was playing for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). He was taken from the field in tears and has not played since.

When will Neymar Jr. return from injury?

Even at the time, eight months ahead of the tournament, it was quickly clear that Neymar would play no part in the 2024 Copa América. The 32-year-old has a history of injuries and his advancing age means that the recovery would take a while.

He is currently signed with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, with whom he managed just five games before picking up the injury. Club physiotherapist Samer Al Shahrani has revealed that the Brazilian star is working to rebuild strength around his knee. Neymar is thought to be making good progress and should return to the practice field in July, ready to start preparations for the new Saudi Pro League campaign.

In the meantime Neymar has continued his recovery in Los Angeles, where he has trained alongside the national team as they prepared for this summer’s tournament. He was visited by Vinicius, Raphinha and Marquinhos at Drake Stadium last month and will be in the stands as Brazil look to recapture the Copa América crown.