Lula Jokes About Neymar's Injury, Calls Him 'Home Office Player'

Brazil President Lula took a light-hearted dig at Neymar over the forward’s injury problems during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

Speaking at an event, Lula asked a young boy who he thought was Brazil’s best player. The child quickly answered Neymar, prompting the president to joke about the star’s absence from the field.

“Neymar isn’t even playing, dude. Neymar is the world’s first home office call-up. Home office player," Lula said. “I saw that on the internet yesterday. Any day now, they’re gonna have to make a National Team with Artificial Intelligence. 11 Pelés."

Meanwhile, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar will be available for the team's crucial Group C match against Scotland, giving the five-time champions a major boost in their bid to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage.

The 34-year-old has not played in the tournament after suffering a right calf injury while representing Santos in May. He missed Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco and the 3-0 victory over Haiti, but Ancelotti revealed that the forward is nearing full fitness.

"Neymar will be training tomorrow alone, and on Monday with the team. He will be available for the match against Scotland," Ancelotti said.

Neymar has been following an individual recovery program and has yet to take part in a full training session with Brazil. His return has become even more important after winger Raphinha suffered a suspected hamstring injury during the win over Haiti.

"We need to evaluate him. We don't know the severity yet," Ancelotti said.

Brazil bounced back from criticism after the Morocco draw with a convincing win over Haiti, powered by two goals from Matheus Cunha and one from Vinicius Junior. Neymar's comeback could provide both experience and morale for the Seleção as qualification remains on the line ahead of Wednesday's clash in Miami Gardens.