Neymar ‘Scared’ Ahead of World Cup

Neymar says that he is “scared” and “nervous” as he makes progress in his bid to be fit in time for the World Cup with Brazil.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward has been named in Tite’s 23-man squad and has a month to be ready for their opening match against Switzerland on June 17.

Speaking to Globo TV, Neymar admitted that he is apprehensive about aggravating his injury, a fractured fifth metatarsal in his right foot, but he is also hopeful that he can lead Brazil to win the World Cup.

“Nobody is as scared as me,” the 26-year-old said. “I know that people are a little nervous, but nobody is more so than me, nobody is more anxious to make a comeback than me.

“It is a very difficult time, I think it is the most difficult I have had because we are so close to my dream, the World Cup.

“Thanks to God, I have this new opportunity to become world champion with my country. It is a dream I have had since I was little, it is my main objective. I hope it will be my cup.”

In a separate interview, Neymar said recovering from his injury was tough.

“This injury is difficult, and the biggest challenge is right now — going to the World Cup after not playing for three months,” Neymar said. “The expectations are very high, not just from the fans but from me as well, that is why this is the biggest challenge I am facing.”