Neymar ready for Scotland match, says Martinelli

Neymar is ready and motivated to return to Brazil's team for its final World Cup Group C match against Scotland, winger Gabriel Martinelli said on Monday.

Neymar looks on after Brazil's friendly against Panama at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, May 31, 2026. (Photo by Daniel Ramalho/Xinhua)

Neymar resumed training with Brazil's squad last week after recovering from a calf strain that had sidelined him since May.

"He's at a very high level and eager to play," Martinelli told reporters on Monday.

"Everyone knows his quality. We can see how motivated he is, and we're happy to have a player like him available and showing the attitude and desire he has been demonstrating," the Arsenal player added.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has already said that Neymar will be included in his matchday squad for Wednesday's match in Miami, though he is almost certain to start on the bench.

The 34-year-old Santos forward, who is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 international appearances, has not played for the national team since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in October 2023.

Brazil currently leads Group C with four points, ahead of Morocco on goal difference. Scotland is third on three points and will likely need another point to have any chance of progressing to the round of 32.

Martinelli said his team was prepared to make extra sacrifices as it seeks to win its sixth World Cup title and first since 2002.

"I always try to give my best and do whatever is needed," he said. "If I have to defend in a back five, I'll play as a fullback."

"We're giving everything we have. We want to win the World Cup, we know the quality we possess and, yes, we would run 10, 20, 30 or even 40 kilometers more to make the team stronger."