Ahead of 2022 World Cup qualifiers, Brazil has released injured captain, Neymar to his club, PSG as he continues to suffer from a leg complaint.
Neymar was only able to play 26 minutes in the Champions League clash against Istanbul Basaksehir after suffering a hamstring injury.
Despite missing the last two games for the club, Neymar still traveled to Brazil, hoping to take a part in their 2022 world cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Venezuela. It was gathered that he was released due to a leg complaint.
Although the Selecao were always aware that a leg complaint was going to prevent the 28-year-old from taking part in the first game of that doubleheader, he was called upon, though, in the hope that he could return to full fitness in time to figure in a crunch clash with Uruguay in Montevideo.
Unfortunately, the PSG superstar has been unable to recover enough to force his way into coach Tite’s plans.
Brazil explain why they invited Neymar despite being injured
Speaking over the development, Rodrigo Lasmar, Brazil’s national team doctor, said they were hoping he will pass fitness test, being the reason he was invited.
“We were hopeful that he could play, that’s why we brought him to Brazil.
“He improved but not enough so that he’ll be ready for the game on Tuesday against Uruguay. The backroom staff decided to release Neymar,” he told reporters when offering an update on Neymar.
This will be welcoming news by those back at Parc des Princes. PSG boss Thomas Tuchel had queried Brazil’s decision to select Neymar when he was clearly not ready to play.
“It’s the right of the national team to call up players. We cannot do anything. If the boys are injured and can’t play, I always prefer that they don’t play.
“It’s a super important phase, a good time to recover for players, but we have confidence that they will be treated well, that they have good care and good preparation. It’s the truth. We have confidence in these people who are responsible for the national teams. If the players are called up, there’s nothing we can do.”
Meanwhile, Brazil is also without Philippe Coutinho, Fabinho and Rodrigo Caio due to injuries, while Eder Militao and Gabriel Menino are unavailable after contracting Covid-19.
Flamengo striker Pedro has been included in the team as a replacement while Everton and Liverpool forwards, Richarlison and Roberto Firmino are expected to be among those that will lead the line in Neymar’s absence.
“The placement in relation to Richarlison is nine. Firmino’s will be a freer player, more bow than arrow, unlike the other games.
“I don’t want to go into more detail. In terms of strategy, we try to preserve some information,” Tite said of his tactical tinkering ahead of the games.
Brazil defeated Venezuela 1-0 in Sao Paulo on Friday. They will be traveling to Uruguay on Tuesday.
