Brazilian President Jokes About Neymar’s 'Remote Work' Status; Star Forward Expected to Return Against Scotland

PHILADELPHIA – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva quipped today that national team star Neymar has become the 'world's first player to be called up while working remotely.'

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed this evening that Neymar, who has been sidelined with a right calf injury, is expected to return to the squad for the final group stage match against Scotland. Neymar, 34, is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals. He sustained the injury in May and missed the team's first two group matches, only returning to individual training this week.

During a hospital event in Belo Horizonte, President Lula remarked on Neymar's current status, playfully suggesting the forward is effectively participating via 'remote work.' This follows previous lighthearted comments from the 80-year-old president, including a joke on the 17th regarding his interest in 'signing' Argentine star Lionel Messi for the Brazilian squad following their 1-1 draw with Morocco.

Coach Ancelotti outlined the recovery timeline, noting that Neymar will resume individual drills tomorrow, join team training on the 22nd, and is expected to be available for selection for the match against Scotland on the 24th.