Neymar’s return to boyhood club Santos has hit another painful setback, with the 33-year-old forward ruled out for the remainder of the Brazilian Serie A season due to a knee injury.
The playmaker missed Monday’s 1-1 draw against Internacional, initially raising hopes that it was only a short-term problem.
However, tests revealed a meniscus injury in his left knee, confirming he will miss Santos’ final three matches of the season.
Injury Timeline and Diagnosis
The problem first emerged during Santos’ 1-1 draw with Mirassol on November 19.
Neymar started that match and the two prior games, even scoring a fourth-minute opener against Mirassol, but felt discomfort in his knee during and after the encounter.
Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda had been cautiously optimistic after Monday’s match, saying the plan was for Neymar to feature against Sport.
“Before the Mirassol game, he felt discomfort in his knee… He felt he wouldn’t be able to meet the demands of today’s game,” Vojvoda told reporters.
Sadly for Santos, Neymar’s absence is now confirmed.
Santos’ Struggle and Relegation Threat
Santos sit 17th in the table, one point and place away from safety in the relegation zone.
Neymar’s leadership on the pitch will be sorely missed as the club fights to avoid relegation.
Originally joining Santos in January on a six-month deal, later extended until December, Neymar’s time at the club has been plagued by injuries.
This latest setback marks the fourth injury of the year: a left hamstring in March, a left thigh in April, right thigh in September, and now a left knee meniscus issue.
Neymar’s Career Challenges and Past Injuries
Before returning to Brazil, Neymar’s 16-month spell at Saudi club Al-Hilal was interrupted by an ACL injury in his left knee while on international duty for Brazil in October 2023.
His recurring injuries at Santos have raised concerns about his long-term fitness and consistency.
Despite his setbacks, Neymar has still managed to score seven goals and provide three assists in 27 appearances across all competitions for Santos in 2025.
Implications for the 2026 World Cup
Neymar’s injury casts uncertainty over his prospects for the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti previously highlighted Neymar as a potential squad member but emphasized that physical condition and performance will be crucial.
“Neymar has recovered, but he needs to show performance… He must show his quality and physical condition again,” Ancelotti said.
The forward has six months to convince selectors ahead of the tournament, but a lengthy injury layoff and the Brazilian league not resuming until March complicates matters.
Looking Ahead for Neymar and Santos
With the season ending and Santos facing a potential relegation battle, Neymar’s focus will shift to recovery and regaining fitness.
The club, fans, and the player himself will be hoping that 2026 brings fewer setbacks and a chance for the Brazilian superstar to return to form, both domestically and on the international stage.
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