Neymar’s Road to Recovery and Anticipation for International Return

omidbasir- Santos Football Club is currently focused on the Campeonato Paulista, aiming for a top-eight finish in the state championship. Presently, they occupy the ninth position in the standings with six points, while the two lowest-ranked teams face relegation.

Neymar, a pivotal figure for the team, is anticipated to contribute positively in the near future. The club is preparing for consecutive matches against their longtime rivals, Sao Paulo, scheduled for January 31 and February 4. Speculation has arisen regarding Neymar’s potential return during these fixtures.

While Santos is hesitant to specify a date for Neymar’s return due to the need for careful management of his fitness, they are encouraged by the progress he is making in his rehabilitation program. Neymar underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on December 22, allowing him to enjoy a break over the festive season. He is currently working individually with Santos’ medical team at the Rei Pele Training Centre.

Club President Marcelo Teixeira addressed the media regarding Neymar’s recovery timeline, stating, “I’m not sure if he’ll return against Sao Paulo; there’s no set date. I’ve been monitoring his rehabilitation, and it’s progressing well. While no specific date has been established, I believe his return is imminent.”

Teixeira further elaborated, “The recovery process is set to intensify in February. Our focus is on bringing Neymar back at the right time, ensuring that he is fit for the entire season.”

In Neymar’s absence, Santos has played four matches at the start of 2026, achieving one win, two draws, and one loss. His return will be eagerly awaited once he receives the green light to resume competitive play.

Neymar is also keen to make a swift return, especially considering his international ambitions. He last represented Brazil in October 2023, where he sustained an ACL injury during a match against Uruguay. The Brazilian national team successfully secured World Cup qualification without him and is now preparing for the tournament in North America. Neymar is determined to play a role in this upcoming competition, although he has yet to feature under the guidance of Italian head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Kleberson, a 2002 World Cup winner, expressed optimism regarding Neymar’s participation, stating, “I genuinely hope to see Neymar at the World Cup. Although he is currently behind in fitness due to injuries and limited playing time, his talent remains unmatched. Once he regains his rhythm and fitness, he can contribute immensely. While he may not enter the World Cup at peak fitness, he has the potential to excel as the tournament progresses. His skill set makes him a formidable player, unlike any other in Brazil.”

Looking ahead, Brazil has friendly matches scheduled against France and Croatia in late March and early April, which may provide Neymar with a chance to reintegrate into the national team, provided he can regain his full match sharpness and form at the club level with Santos.