Brazilian superstar Neymar says he feels like a teenager preparing for his first major tournament ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even though he expects this to be the final World Cup appearance of his illustrious career.
The 34-year-old forward remains a fitness concern for Brazil after suffering a calf strain before the tournament. While he is unlikely to feature in the Seleção’s opening Group C fixture, the medical staff are optimistic about his recovery and hope he can contribute later in the group stage.
Neymar has been working intensively behind the scenes at Brazil’s training camp in the United States. While his team-mates continue preparations on the pitch, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has focused on strength and cardiovascular
work as part of his rehabilitation programme. Reports from the camp suggest his recovery is progressing well, with coach Carlo Ancelotti hopeful of having him available sooner rather than later.
‘Different’ As It Is ‘Final One’
Despite the setback, Neymar says his excitement for the tournament is as strong as ever.
“Even though it’s my fourth World Cup, it’s a different feeling because of everything involved and, obviously, because it’s the final one,” Neymar was quoted as saying in a preview of the documentary Vai, Brasil (Go, Brazil).
The Brazilian icon has been central to his country’s last three World Cup campaigns, although injuries have frequently disrupted his impact. Most notably, he missed Brazil’s devastating 7-1 semi-final defeat to Germany on home soil in 2014 after suffering a serious back injury earlier in the tournament.
Now preparing for one final shot at football’s biggest prize, Neymar says he is approaching the competition with the same enthusiasm he had at the start of his international career.
“I’m here feeling like a kid, like an 18-year-old going to his first World Cup,” said the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward.
“I’m very proud, very happy to be here. I’m going to enjoy every second, every moment of this World Cup and I hope it will be special as well,” he added.
Brazil open their campaign against Morocco before facing Haiti and Scotland as they chase a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
(With inputs from Agencies)
