Brazil President Lula mocks Neymar's World Cup injury absence

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva joked that Brazil forward Neymar is the "world's first work‑from‑home" player while the striker recovers from a grade‑two calf injury that has kept him out of Brazil's opening World Cup matches. Lula made the remark at an event in Belo Horizonte, saying the player has been training separately in New Jersey and has only just resumed light drills. Neymar's fitness remains uncertain ahead of Brazil's final Group C match against Scotland, with coach Carlo Ancelotti expected to decide after further training sessions.

The comment sparked debate in Brazil over whether the veteran attacker, the national team's all‑time leading scorer, should be included in the squad despite his ongoing rehabilitation. Ancelotti has indicated a cautious approach, hoping Neymar could return for the decisive game if his recovery progresses.