2026 World Cup: Paqueta delighted at Neymar’s return

Brazil playmaker Lucas Paqueta is delighted with the return of star player Neymar to first-team training as the Selecao prepare for their final Group C showdown against Scotland. 

Brazil had suffered an injury blow as Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury, and his return date remains uncertain.

Neymar, who had returned to Santos after fruitful adventures in Europe, has been sidelined with a calf injury, which had ruled him out of the opening stages of the 2026 World Cup.

The former Paris Saint-Germain player is now closing in on a return to action in Miami, having been set to feature at the tournament.

He is a boost for the Selecao as they hope to top their group in the matchday three clash against Scotland.

Due to his influence, his return to the training pitch has provided a significant lift to the camp as they look to secure top spot in the group.

Paqueta, during a news conference, expressed the squad’s excitement at having their talisman back in the fold.

“We’re all very happy to see him training and back on the pitch with us”, he added.

While noting that Neymar remains a very important player for the Brazilian national team, Paqueta said the former Barcelona striker has an extraordinary history with the national team, and he can still help a lot.

 “We’re glad he’s back, and we hope he’ll be available as soon as possible to contribute to the team.”

Neymar’s return is no doubt a major positive, but Brazil are still dealing with the loss of Raphinha.

The absence of the Barcelona attacker is another significant blow to the Selecao’s attacking fluidity, and his availability for the remainder of the tournament remains shrouded in uncertainty. 

Paqueta said the squad is rallying around their teammate during his rehabilitation, promising that they will do everything they can to help.

 The Flamengo ace said the former Leeds United winger is a guy who works really hard, expressing confidence that he’ll do everything possible to come back as soon as he can.

“As for his importance, there’s not much more to add. He’s coming off some extraordinary seasons and has grown a lot with the national team as well.”

Paqueta also dismissed complacency in the squad, saying the tag of five-time world champions won’t help them to just stroll past Scotland, which still have high hopes of reaching the knockout stages for the first time in their history.

A positive result against the South American giants would likely see them through, as there could be a chance of best loser. 

Wary of the challenge posed by Steve Clarke’s side ahead of the clash in Miami, Paqueta said all the teams at the World Cup deserve respect as they have to study them and prepare as best as possible.

The former West Ham midfielder said Brazil have great respect for Scotland and also need to play their game and follow what the coaching team tells them to do. 

Brazil currently tops Group C. Courtesy of their superior goal difference, they are level on points with Morocco, which defeated the Scottish side by a single goal on Match Day Two.

This makes the race for qualification tight. So, they need a win to keep them at the top, considering that in the other match, Morocco, who are level on points with Brazil, will face the already eliminated team Haiti. With the knockout rounds fast approaching,