Neymar Jr Will Be Out of the Copa América 2024

Brazilian forward Neymar will be sidelined for the upcoming 2024 Copa América in the United States, confirmed Brazil's team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, on Tuesday. The 31-year-old Al Hilal player sustained a severe knee injury, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee during Brazil's World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay on October 17. Neymar underwent surgery two weeks later.

Speaking to Brazil Radio 98 FM, Dr. Lasmar emphasized the importance of a cautious approach to Neymar's recovery, stating, "It's too early to rush the process and take unnecessary risks. Our expectation is that he will be ready to return at the beginning of the 2024 European season in August. We need to be patient and respect the biological time required for the body to reconstruct the ligament."

Dr. Lasmar cautioned against premature expectations, noting that a return before nine months is not advisable based on global standards for knee ligament surgery recovery. He added, "If we follow the prescribed steps and allow for a thorough recovery, the hope is that Neymar can once again perform at a high level."

Brazil, drawn into Group D for the Copa América, will face challenges from Colombia, Paraguay, and the winner of a playoff between Costa Rica and Honduras. Additionally, a pre-tournament friendly against Mexico is scheduled for June 8. This marks the second time the U.S. hosts the Copa América, with six Concacaf teams joining ten from South America in the tournament, which kicks off on June 20 and concludes with the final on July 14.