Brazil have received a major boost ahead of their decisive final Group C fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Neymar confirmed to be fit and available for selection against Scotland. However, despite recovering from his latest injury setback, it remains to be seen if the veteran forward will be handed a place in the starting XI by manager Carlo Ancelotti.
The 34-year-old's fitness has been one of the biggest talking points surrounding Brazil's World Cup campaign, especially given his struggles with injuries over the last few years.
Neymar's Troubling Injury Record in Recent Years
There is no denying Neymar's quality when fully fit, but his availability has become increasingly unreliable in the latter stages of his career.
His move to Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in 2023 quickly turned into a nightmare after he suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury while on international duty with Brazil. The setback kept him sidelined for almost a year and severely disrupted his time in the Middle East.
Even after returning to action, Neymar endured further muscular issues and fitness concerns, limiting him to only a handful of appearances for Al Hilal before eventually leaving the club.
A return to Santos was expected to help him rediscover rhythm and confidence, but injuries once again proved to be a recurring problem. He missed several matches due to thigh and muscle complaints, preventing him from building any meaningful consistency ahead of the World Cup.
As a result, many observers questioned whether Neymar would be physically capable of contributing significantly during the tournament.
Brazil Squad Selection Sparked Debate
Neymar's inclusion in Brazil's final 26-man squad was controversial from the moment it was announced.
While few doubted his experience and leadership qualities, critics pointed out that he had barely played regular football in the months leading up to the World Cup.
The debate intensified because Brazil left out in-form striker João Pedro, who had enjoyed a productive season at club level with Chelsea and was widely considered deserving of a place in the squad.
Many supporters believed Brazil were selecting Neymar largely because of his iconic status and influence within the dressing room rather than recent performances.
Carlo Ancelotti defended the decision, insisting that Neymar's creativity, ability to unlock compact defences and experience in high-pressure matches could still prove decisive during the tournament.
Will Neymar Start Against Scotland?
Although Neymar is now medically cleared and available for selection, starting him against Scotland appears unlikely.
Brazil still have work to do in Group C, and goal difference could become crucial in determining who finishes top.
Morocco are expected to be overwhelming favourites against Haiti in the other group fixture and currently sit level on points with Brazil. That means the Seleção may need a convincing victory over Scotland to secure first place and potentially earn a more favourable path in the knockout rounds.
Ancelotti has generally preferred a more energetic and physically intense front line during the competition, relying on players capable of pressing aggressively and maintaining a high tempo throughout the match.
Considering Neymar's lack of match fitness and limited playing time in recent months, throwing him straight into the starting lineup would be a significant gamble.
Instead, the Brazilian legend could be used as an impact substitute if Scotland begin to tire or if Brazil needs a moment of inspiration in the latter stages.
For now, Neymar's availability is undoubtedly positive news for Brazil, but supporters should not be surprised if they see their record goalscorer begin the crucial World Cup encounter from the bench.
