Neymar’s homecoming to Brazilian football, which was meant to be a triumphant return to boyhood club Santos, has taken a frustrating turn.
The 33-year-old star has been ruled out for the rest of the Brazilian Serie A season due to a knee injury, leaving Santos facing a critical relegation battle without their marquee player.
Injury Woes Keep Neymar Off the Pitch
The forward missed Monday’s 1-1 draw against Internacional after experiencing knee discomfort just before kick-off.
Initially, there was hope he would only miss that match and be ready for Saturday’s clash with Sport.
However, the situation worsened after tests in Sao Paulo revealed a meniscus injury in his left knee.
This diagnosis rules Neymar out for not only the upcoming game but also the final two fixtures of what has been a difficult season for Santos.
How the Injury Happened
The trouble began in the first half of a 1-1 draw with Mirassol on November 19.
Neymar had started that match, as well as the two prior games, and even managed to score in the fourth minute.
Despite completing the match, he felt discomfort during the game and increasingly so afterward, which eventually led to his current absence.
Manager’s Optimism Meets Harsh Reality
Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda had been hopeful about Neymar’s availability.
Speaking after the Internacional match, he said, “The plan is for him to be in the match against Sport.
His commitment is always to be there, and he’s our leader on the field.”
Vojvoda also highlighted the challenges Neymar faced during the season, including travel and consecutive games every three days, emphasizing the player’s dedication despite physical setbacks.
Sadly, his optimism won’t be enough to prevent the club from struggling, as Santos currently sits 17th in the table—just one point shy of safety.
Neymar’s Injury History at Santos
Neymar returned to Santos in January on a six-month deal, later extended to December.
His previous stint at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia ended in October 2023 due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury while playing for Brazil.
Since returning to Santos, injuries have continued to plague him.
This marks his fourth physical setback in 2025:
- March: Left hamstring injury
- April: Left thigh injury
- September: Right thigh injury
- November: Left knee meniscus injury
Despite these challenges, Neymar has contributed seven goals and three assists in 27 appearances across all competitions for Santos this year.
Implications for World Cup Hopes
The injury also raises questions about Neymar’s participation in the 2026 World Cup.
With the Brazilian season concluding and the next campaign not starting until late March, he will have limited opportunities to regain full match fitness.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti recently weighed in on Neymar’s prospects, stating that the forward remains on the national team radar.
“He has six months to make the final list. Neymar has recovered, but he needs to show performance.
Soccer today requires more than talent—physical condition and intensity are key. Hopefully, he can reach his best level,” Ancelotti explained.
The coach also emphasized a strategic shift for Neymar, suggesting he play more centrally rather than on the wing to manage defensive demands and maximize his impact.
What Lies Ahead for Neymar and Santos
With Santos fighting to avoid relegation and Neymar sidelined, the club faces a tough road ahead.
Fans and teammates alike will be hoping the star can return to full fitness in time to contribute meaningfully in 2026, both for his club and for Brazil’s World Cup ambitions.
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