Why isn’t Neymar playing against Ecuador in the South American 2026 WCQ?

The former Barcelona and PSG star, and all-time top scorer for his nation, remains absent as Brazil resume their qualification campaign.

Real Madrid trio Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Endrick are expected to feature in attack for Brazil in their qualification game for the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Ecuador on Friday, but former Barcelona star Neymar will again be missing for the five-time world champions.

La Seleção have made a stuttering start to their qualifying campaign, with three defeats in their opening six games leaving them sixth in the table, 11 points behind leaders - and arch rivals - Argentina. Their case hasn’t been helped by the absence of Neymar, who missed their last two qualifiers in 2023, both of which ended in defeat.

The 32-year-old tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while playing for Brazil against Uruguay in their fourth qualifier in October 2023, which they also lost away from home. A tearful Neymar was stretchered off the field just before half time and has not played since.

When will Neymar return from injury?

There had been a slight hope the Al Hilal attacker might return in time for the 2024 Copa América, although that proved to be far too optimistic. He did travel to the United States in support of his international teammates, though.

Neymar has stepped his recovery up in recent weeks but Jorge Jesus, the head coach of the Saudi Pro League team, believes the Brazilian star won’t be ready to resume full training until November.

Al Hilal have until September 9 to submit their final list of players for the Saudi Pro League season, which can only contain eight foreign players. As they have nine on their books and Neymar is still some time away from being ready to return, he could be temporarily left out before being registered after the winter break in December.

There is a chance Neymar could play for Brazil again before he next features for Al Hilal, although the November qualifiers away to Venezuela and home to Uruguay are also likely to come too soon, especially if he hasn’t had any game time beforehand.