Real Madrid star Rodrygo said that Brazil needs Neymar healthy if they want to capture their sixth World Cup trophy in 2026.
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Brazil needs Neymar
Brazil recently defeated Ecuador 1-0 on Friday in CONMEBOL qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Rodrygo, who gave Brazil its only goal in the game, said he wants to see Neymar healthy when he suits up for the team.
“He’s our star, our best player,” Rodrygo said in an exclusive ESPN Brasil interview.
“Anyone can see it, how much he is missed. Having Neymar healthy, which is what we all want, [and] he is in the final stages of his recovery. We want him back as soon as possible.”
Neymar, 32, underwent surgery to repair his ACL and meniscus injuries in his left knee that he sustained on November 2, 2023.
The Al Hilal star has been plagued with multiple injuries, including a number of right ankle and foot injuries.
He was also hurt in Selecao’s World Cup qualifying defeat to Uruguay in October of 2023.
“He is now returning”
Rodrygo, 23, mentioned that he stays in touch with Neymar and confirmed that Neymar will return to train with the team.
“We always message each other. He is now returning to training with the group,” Rodrygo said.
The winger added that Neymar is a “great teammate”, and it makes him sad when someone talks “badly about him.”
“He’s a great teammate. It makes me sad when I see someone talking badly about him, because of the person he is. He always sends me messages, helps me. I love him. In addition to being my
