Ancelotti says he is relaxed about Neymar’s availability for the World Cup.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Tuesday that he is not rushing to bring star forward Neymar back from a calf injury as the team arrives in the United States ahead of the World Cup.

Earlier, Ancelotti had indicated that Neymar could be fit for the Selecao’s first or second group‑stage match at the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Last week, Brazil’s team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar reported that Neymar, 34, had sustained a calf injury and would be sidelined for up to three weeks.

The five‑time World‑Cup winners will begin their campaign against Morocco on 13 June.

“He’s progressing well, he’s doing well, we’re in no rush,” Ancelotti said after Brazil arrived in Newark.

Neymar’s inclusion in Ancelotti’s 26‑man squad was unexpected, given that he had not played for his country for almost three years and has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

The forward is Brazil’s all‑time leading goalscorer, with 79 goals in 128 appearances for the Selecao, and this will be his fourth World Cup.

Brazil arrive at the tournament with less pressure than in previous editions. The team finished fifth in South American qualifying and suffered defeats to France, Japan and Bolivia in the past year.

Nonetheless, Ancelotti stressed that his side will be a serious contender in North America.

“We want to compete with opponents, try to do our best, work hard — everyone knows what Brazil’s expectations are,” he said.

“Everyone knows that there are no favourites, there are some strong teams and I think Brazil can compete with anyone.”

Veteran midfielder Casemiro said that supporters back home will expect nothing less than a sixth World‑Cup title.

“There are big expectations, it will be tough, but we are very excited, we want to win,” he said.

Brazil are in Group C and will face Haiti and Scotland after Morocco.

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