World Cup 2026: Brazil look beyond Neymar as campaign begins against Morocco

Brazil will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday without Neymar, and there is growing expectation that the forward could miss all three of the Seleção’s group-stage matches.

For a team that has long revolved around its most recognisable star, such a scenario might once have been viewed as a major setback.

However, within the Brazilian camp there appears to be increasing confidence that success at the tournament will not depend solely on the availability of the country’s most celebrated player.

The excitement surrounding Neymar’s inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man World Cup squad was evident when the squad was announced on 18 May.

His selection was greeted with enthusiasm, reflecting the enduring popularity of the Brazilian playmaker among football supporters around the world.

Yet a month later, attention has shifted from optimism to practicality.

Neymar is still not considered physically ready, leaving Brazil to start their campaign without him.

There is also a strong possibility that he will not feature during the first round of matches.

Rather than disrupting preparations, his absence has reinforced a growing belief that Brazil’s strength lies in the depth of its squad and its ability to function collectively.

Within the dressing room, the focus appears to have moved away from relying on a single individual.

Neymar’s role is increasingly viewed as one that could provide experience, leadership and occasional moments of inspiration rather than serving as the central pillar of the team.

If this proves to be his final major international tournament, it is unlikely to be defined by the same level of responsibility that characterised previous campaigns.

The current hierarchy in attack reflects a changing generation.

Vinícius Júnior has emerged as the leading figure in Ancelotti’s plans.

Despite a season described as inconsistent and a continuing process of development at international level, he remains the player most capable of influencing matches in open play.

His performances in recent friendly matches against Panama and Egypt offered encouragement.

Vinícius appeared sharp and confident, scoring against Panama and providing further evidence of his growing importance to the national side.

Alongside him, Raphinha has established himself in a more central attacking role.

His adaptation follows a positional change that has taken place over the past year at Barcelona under Hansi Flick.

Brazil also possess two contrasting options in attack.

Igor Thiago provides a physical presence as a traditional striker, while Endrick offers pace and directness.

Their differing qualities give Ancelotti tactical flexibility and additional attacking solutions.

The emergence of younger talents has also accelerated Brazil’s gradual generational transition.

Players such as Rayan, Endrick and Luiz Henrique are increasingly becoming part of the national team picture, while others have found themselves outside the current selection.

Beyond tactical considerations, Neymar’s presence in the squad may still carry value.

🚨This was Brazil’s starting XI in training today. The same lineup is expected to face Morocco in the World Cup.

📰 | @geglobo (🌕) pic.twitter.com/oNMjrVdRC4

— Ginga Bonito 🇧🇷 (@GingaBonitoHub) June 10, 2026

The attention surrounding him inevitably attracts much of the spotlight, potentially reducing the pressure on his teammates as they prepare for football’s biggest tournament.

That dynamic could allow other players to perform with greater freedom, free from some of the expectations that traditionally accompany the Brazilian shirt at a World Cup.

Although Brazil have not entered a World Cup as overwhelming favourites for several years, they arrive in North America with a squad capable of challenging expectations.

Whether Neymar eventually returns to action or not, Brazil believe they possess enough quality, balance and emerging talent to make a significant impact on the tournament.

His return could strengthen their ambitions further, but the early stages of their campaign will be built on a belief that the team is larger than any one player.