Whenever England squares off against Brazil on the international stage, there’s an undeniable aura of anticipation. Despite their encounters mostly unfolding in friendlies, the clash between these two footballing giants never fails to generate excitement.
This Saturday marks the 27th meeting between England and Brazil, as both teams gear up for the upcoming European Championship and Copa America, respectively. While Gareth Southgate has assembled a formidable squad for the match, Dorival Junior’s Brazilian side faces a significant setback due to various fitness issues, depriving spectators at Wembley of witnessing some of the world’s top talents, including Neymar.
So, why won’t Neymar grace the pitch against England?
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Unfortunately for fans with tickets to Wembley, Neymar, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward, won’t be showcasing his skills this weekend. The Al Hilal attacker sustained an injury during his last stint with the national team in November, rupturing his ACL in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Since then, Neymar has been sidelined, casting doubts over his participation in this summer’s Copa America, scheduled to commence on June 20 in the United States. Moreover, his appearances for new club Al Hilal have been limited since his £86 million move to Saudi Arabia last summer.
Although Neymar has faced England three times previously, he’s yet to secure a victory or even score against them.
But Neymar isn’t the sole absentee from the Brazilian squad. Several high-profile Premier League players are currently sidelined, including Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli due to foot injuries. Striker Gabriel Jesus, despite being fit, wasn’t called up for the squad. Additionally, goalkeeping stalwarts Ederson and Alisson are nursing thigh injuries, alongside Joelinton and Casemiro. PSG’s Marquinhos has also had to withdraw from the squad due to a calf injury.