Brazil President Lula Jokes About Neymar’s Absence, Says Star Is “Working Remotely” With National Team

Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has joked about Neymar’s current situation with the national team, saying the forward has become the first player to be called up while “working remotely.”

Lula made the humorous comment during a ceremony at a hospital in Belo Horizonte after a young boy mentioned Neymar’s name.

“Neymar? He is not even playing!” Lula responded.

“Neymar is the first player to be called up (to the national team) who is working remotely.”

The joke comes after Neymar only recently returned to training with the Brazil squad following recovery from a calf injury.

The 34-year-old, who is Brazil national football team’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals, missed Brazil’s opening 1-1 draw against Morocco.

He was also left out of coach Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for Brazil’s second group match against Haiti as he continues his recovery and works toward full fitness.

Neymar remains one of Brazil’s biggest football icons, but injuries have repeatedly interrupted his appearances for both club and country in recent years. His latest setback has once again raised questions about how much more he can contribute at the highest level.

Despite his absence, expectations remain high among Brazilian fans, who continue to hope that their record goalscorer can return and play a key role when fully fit.