Veteran forward Neymar has been excluded from Brazil's next World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina because of a thigh injury, Brazil's Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed on Friday.
The 33-year-old star last played for Brazil in October 2023 before getting a knee injury and has been replaced by young Real Madrid forward Endrick, as per a report by Xinhua.
Showing his disappointment, Neymar posted his comments on Instagram: "The return was so near, but unfortunately, I won't be able to put on the most important shirt in the world for the time being."
He further added, "We talked a lot, and everyone knows how much I want to return. But we decided that it's better not to risk anything and work on a complete recovery to fully overcome the injury."
Brazil is scheduled to meet Colombia in Brasília on March 20 before a meeting with Argentina in Buenos Aires five days later. The five-time world champions are presently fifth in the 10-member South American group, having recorded 18 points from 12 games, seven points behind leaders Argentina.
Since returning to Santos from Al-Hilal in January, Neymar has started to display glimpses of his genius, scoring three goals and making three assists in seven games. One of his highlights was a stunning direct goal from a corner kick.
In other news, the CBF also revealed that Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri and Flamengo defender Alex Sandro have been included to replace Manchester City's Ederson and Flamengo right-back Danilo.
Endrick, who has now earned 13 caps for Brazil and three international goals, has also caught the eye at Real Madrid this season, scoring six times in 28 games.
Read also| La Liga: Barcelona Thrash 10-Man Real Sociedad to Reclaim Top Spot
Read also| Messi Aims for More Titles with Inter Miami, Hopes to Inspire MLS Clubs
