Lionel Messi and Neymar have been an electrifying duo to observe since their days ripping previous defenses aspect by aspect at Barcelona. From their formidable three at Camp Nou with Luis Suarez to their disastrous try at a related partnership with Kylian Mbappe at Paris Saint-Germain, and battles on the worldwide stage, these two superstars have seen all of it.
Now, with Messi main Inter Miami in MLS and Neymar enjoying for Santos in his homeland, the alternatives for these two legends to face off have grow to be more and more uncommon. But, followers world wide proceed to attend for his or her subsequent showdown—one which was set to occur before anticipated earlier than an unlucky setback modified every thing.
The soccer world was buzzing with anticipation for the following assembly between the previous Barcelona and PSG duo, which was anticipated to occur in one of many sport’s most intense worldwide rivalries. Nonetheless, that reunion has now been placed on maintain after Brazil confirmed Neymar’s withdrawal from the squad for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.
The choice signifies that the 33-year-old won’t function in opposition to Argentina, a match that may have been one of many greatest highlights of the worldwide break. Followers have been desperate to see him go head-to-head with Messi within the legendary Superclasico de las Americas, however they’ll now have to attend for an additional alternative.
Why Neymar will miss Brazil’s March World Cup qualifiers
Brazil’s Soccer Confederation (CBF) issued an official assertion explaining Neymar’s absence, confirming that the skilled ahead is coping with a difficulty in his left thigh.
After a turbulent few seasons at Paris Saint-Germain and his high-profile transfer to Al Hilal, Neymar has been battling persistent accidents. Regardless of displaying flashes of brilliance at Santos since February, his health has not been at 100%, and the choice was made to prioritize his long-term well being over short-term good points.
This information is a main setback for Brazil, as they’re at the moment fifth within the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying desk and wish each star participant out there. With out him, La Albiceleste can have a slight benefit, on condition that Messi’s aspect is at the moment in sturdy kind and stays one of many favorites to prime the standings.
When will Messi and Neymar meet subsequent?
With Neymar dominated out of the World Cup Qualifiers, the following attainable showdown between the 2 superstars might come on a totally different stage. One potential assembly floor could possibly be this summer season’sFIFA Membership World Cup, the place Messi’s Inter Miami is anticipated to take part.
The match, set to happen in June 2025, will function prime golf equipment from world wide, together with the MLS Supporters’ Defend winners. As a result of Neymar’s current membership isn’t collaborating, the one approach the 2 icons could reunite within the match is that if the veteran decides to go away Santos earlier than June 30 and indicators with a workforce that does.
Wanting even additional forward, there’s a sturdy risk that they might meet on the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in Canada, the US, and Mexico. By that point, the Argentine might be 39 years previous, and the Brazilian might be 35, making it doubtless that this could possibly be their remaining alternative to face off on the most important stage in world soccer.