Ancelotti confirms Neymar's return for crucial Scotland clash

Recovered from the calf injury that kept him out of the first two matches for the Selecao Brasileira at the World Cup, the number 10 is back and available at a crucial moment for the team.

"Neymar is available. He trained well during the week, prepared well for the game. We are very happy that he is back. With his quality, he can help the team", said the Italian coach to journalists. 

The main technical hope of Brazilian football, Neymar, is expected to make his return to the Selecao after a long absence. There is still no decision on how long he will play, but the expectation is that he will be used for about 15 minutes, to regain match fitness ahead of the knockout stage.

"He can play. I can play 90 minutes walking. He can play, he's fine. He trained very well. I'm very happy with him", said a smiling Ancelotti.  

Neymar's last match for the Selecao was on October 17th, 2023, in a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay in the Qualifiers.

On that occasion, the number 10 suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus tear in his left knee. After almost three years away and recovering, the forward has been called up again by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup.

"Neymar's attitude these days has been very good. He knows his teammates very well. He worked very well, with a lot of seriousness. Trying to recover as soon as possible.

"I'm very happy with him. If he doesn't play, he helps with his experience, his knowledge of the game, he helps the young players. He's doing very well", the Italian emphasised. 

Neymar's presence strengthens a side that takes the field looking for a win to secure first place in Group C. 

Brazil and Scotland face each other this Wednesday, in the final round of the World Cup group stage.

Follow Scotland vs Brazil with live commentary on Flashscore