Neymar has undergone successful arthroscopic surgery on his knee, Santos confirmed on Monday, as the forward continues his efforts to regain full fitness ahead of a potential return to the Brazil national team for next year’s World Cup.
The 33-year-old rejoined his boyhood club in January and played a significant role in preserving their top-flight status, contributing despite ongoing discomfort. Neymar featured prominently during the run-in, scoring five goals in his final four appearances as Santos secured survival in Brazil’s top division.
In an official statement, Santos confirmed the procedure was carried out by Brazil national team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar. “An arthroscopy was performed to treat a medial meniscus injury. The surgery was successful, and the athlete is recovering well,” the club said.
No formal timetable has been set for Neymar’s return, although Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte has reported that the expected recovery period is approximately one month, depending on his response to rehabilitation.
Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 79 goals, Neymar has not represented the Seleção since 2023, having struggled with a series of injuries that have interrupted the latter stages of his career. His fitness remains a central consideration for national team head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who stressed in October that Neymar must demonstrate sustained physical readiness to be considered for selection.
The upcoming World Cup, scheduled to run from 11 June to 19 July in Canada, Mexico and the United States, remains a key motivation. Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Scotland, 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco and Haiti.
As Neymar begins his recovery, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether he can re-establish himself at club level and force his way back into Brazil’s plans on the sport’s biggest stage.
