Casemiro backs Neymar to star at the World Cup: “We know his quality”

The first day of Brazil’s pre-World Cup preparations ended in disappointment as Neymar was diagnosed with a right calf strain, potentially ruling him out of the team’s tournament opener.

Neymar looks set to spent two to three weeks on the sidelines, likely missing both warm-up friendlies ahead of the tournament. Brazil teammate Casemiro spoke to reporters on Thursday and was asked for his take on Neymar’s fitness.

“Every time he comes [with the national team], you have to bring him up,” Casemiro joked. “It was actually nice that the doctor came here so we wouldn’t have to field so many questions.”

Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar issued a statement on Thursday, confirming the injury and outlining the recovery process. Neymar has battled against a succession of injuries in recent years but Casemiro is confident that his compatriot will be able to have an impact this summer.

“Of course, no player likes being injured, but I hope he’s healthy enough to play - we need everyone. His recovery is progressing day by day, and we’re eagerly awaiting the return of all our players. Everyone is important, just like Neymar,” Casemiro said.

The midfielder pushed back on suggestions that Neymar would have to settle for a limited role at the World Cup: “Players, even though they know what they do on the field, each one wants to be the star. That question is for Neymar, for the coach... we know his quality.”

“He’s taking care of the injury; he wants to get back to training first. It has to be step by step. Get back to good health, get back to playing, and then think about being the star. Think about health.”

The rest of the Brazil squad is preparing for warm-up games against Panama on May 31 and Egypt on June 5. The team will begin the World Cup by taking on Morocco on June 13, before games against Haiti on June 20 and Scotland on June 24.

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