According to the update, Carlo Ancelotti plans to have Neymar train alone before he rejoins the squad. That would represent the clearest sign yet that the Brazil forward is nearing full fitness after a calf injury kept him out of the team’s opening matches.
But inclusion is not the same as selection. Neymar could be named among the substitutes, offering Ancelotti the option of using him for a carefully managed cameo rather than immediately handing him a starting role.
That distinction matters. A return against Scotland would be encouraging, but the larger objective is to have Neymar ready when the knockout stage removes the margin for error.
The report says Brazil’s position in Group C has allowed Ancelotti to take a cautious approach. Their progress has reportedly given the manager room to protect his most influential attacking player rather than risk an early setback.
Brazil have also shown they can threaten without Neymar. Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Junior have carried important attacking responsibility during the group phase, giving Ancelotti alternatives while the recovery plan continues.
Neymar’s presence, however, would change the character of the squad. His creativity between the lines, ability to draw defenders and experience in major tournaments could prove decisive when opponents become more compact and the stakes rise.
What happens against Scotland may matter less than how Neymar responds physically. A short appearance, or even a place on the bench, would give Brazil valuable information without forcing the issue.
The next storyline is therefore clear: Neymar’s possible return on 24 June, followed by the question of whether he can build toward the last 16. For Brazil, patience now could be the difference between a symbolic comeback and a meaningful tournament contribution.