Neymar’s Injury Setback Challenges World Cup Aspirations

Neymar has been sidelined for nearly a year and a half at Al-Hilal due to an ACL rupture sustained while representing Brazil in September 2023. His highly anticipated transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to the Saudi Pro League turned into a challenging experience, culminating in his departure from the Middle East in January 2025 to rejoin his childhood club, Santos.

The intention behind his return was to enhance Santos’ standing as they re-entered Brazil’s top football division, while also allowing Neymar to regain his match fitness and form in hopes of rejoining the national team. However, the outcome has not matched the expectations. Although Neymar netted seven goals in 25 matches across all competitions, he has been plagued by recurrent injuries during his second tenure at Santos. These continuous setbacks have hindered his efforts to return to the Brazil national squad, and with only one international window remaining in March before the 2026 World Cup, he is racing against time to make his case to coach Carlo Ancelotti.

After a recent 1-1 draw against Internacional, Santos manager Vojvoda addressed Neymar’s condition, stating, “The plan is for him to participate in the match against Sport. I need to consult with him as I am not physically present, and I will respect his decisions. However, he is committed to being there; he always wants to play. Before the Mirassol match, he experienced discomfort in his knee, which was evident during the game. The next day, he reported significant discomfort. We have matches every three days, and with travel, we will reach Santos tomorrow afternoon. He is a player we need for all three rounds, and he will contribute significantly. He felt he could not meet the demands of today’s game.”

Recent reports from GloboEsporte indicate that Neymar has sustained a meniscus injury in his left knee, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. The injury occurred during his last match against Mirassol, where he went down in pain after attempting to maneuver past a defender. Although he completed the full match, concerns regarding his fitness have been substantiated.

This injury poses a considerable challenge for Santos, who have only three matches left in the 2025-26 season and find themselves battling in the relegation zone.

At this juncture, it remains uncertain whether Neymar will be able to compete in his fourth World Cup in North America next year. With his absence for the rest of 2025 and limited opportunities in the New Year, as the Brazilian league doesn’t resume until late March, his only viable option may be to return to Europe for match play ahead of the World Cup.

Without sufficient game time, it seems improbable that Ancelotti will select him for the national team. However, the Italian coach maintains hope for Neymar’s prompt return to peak form. During Brazil’s November camp, Ancelotti remarked, “Neymar is on the list of potential World Cup players. He has six months to secure his spot. Although Neymar has made strides in his recovery, he needs to demonstrate his performance. Following the conclusion of the Brazilian league, he will have some time to recuperate and must then showcase his quality and physical readiness once again.”

The national team coach also provided insight for Neymar, emphasizing, “Today’s football demands more than just talent; it requires physical fitness and intensity. I hope Neymar can achieve his best level. He should play more centrally rather than as a winger, as wingers are now expected to contribute defensively. A more central role demands less defensive effort, allowing for greater focus on attacking play.”