Neymar returns to Brazilian team training with the ball and is ‘baptized’ by his teammates in New Jersey
Last Wednesday (17), the Brazilian team concluded another rehearsal in New Jersey, preparing for the duel against Haiti in the second round of Group C of the World Cup. The training, led by Carlo Ancelotti, was attended by all 26 squad members, including the notable return of Neymar, who participated in the warm-up activities alongside his teammates. The attacker was received with applause and subjected to the traditional “Polish corridor”, a welcome ritual between the players.
The player’s first steps on the field and the team’s reception
Unlike the previous day, when number 10 just walked around the pitch in tennis and did individual work with the ball, Wednesday marked his first full integration into the group in training. After the first ten minutes of warming up, Neymar continued with a routine of specific physical exercises, performed separately. The coaching staff does not predict their lineup for the match against Haiti, highlighting the need to improve their physical conditioning and game rhythm before a full return.
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Ancelotti’s tactical analysis and possible lineups
During the 15 minutes in which the press had access to the field, coach Carlo Ancelotti focused on tactical work that suggested a 4-2-4 formation for the team. Among the athletes observed on the field were Danilo (with Éderson next), Marquinhos, Léo Pereira and Douglas Santos in defense; Fabinho and Bruno Guimarães playing in midfield; and an offensive quartet composed of Martinelli, Vini Jr., Igor Thiago and Luiz Henrique.
The number 10 underwent tests last Monday and did not participate in the main activity of the Seleção. The medical department closely monitored the progress of the healing of a problem in the attacker’s right leg. Only on Tuesday did he make his first appearance on the field since the team arrived for the World Cup, performing light runs. On Wednesday, the exercises evolved into more elaborate movements, including changes of direction and controlled braking.
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The right calf injury, which occurred precisely a month ago in a Santos match against Coritiba, which ended in a 3-0 defeat, resulted in the player being sidelined. Although his return to the field reinforces fans’ hope, the coaching staff adopts a prudent approach, avoiding skipping steps to ensure Neymar’s full and more effective recovery.
Previously, the attacker had only been training indoors at the training center, under the supervision of physiotherapists and fitness trainers. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has highlighted that the work plan for Neymar goes beyond treating the injury, encompassing a rigorous physical program adapted to the conditions of the calf. The central objective is to prevent the loss of muscle mass, with the transition to the field focused on developing cardiovascular capacity, an essential step for your complete return without risk of new injuries.
Currently, the Brazilian team occupies second place in Group C, with one point, tied with Morocco. The team is preparing for its next match, which will be on Friday, against Haiti, at 9:30 pm (Brasília time). The game will take place in Philadelphia.















