Neymar’s Challenges at Santos: Injury Concerns and Future Prospects

The excitement surrounding Neymar’s potential return to his boyhood club in early 2025 has been palpable, especially following the cancellation of his contract with Al-Hilal. The former Paris Saint-Germain star was officially presented by the Brazilian club in late January, aiming to regain his prime form and re-enter the international scene. Although his record of seven goals and three assists in 25 matches is commendable, recurring injuries have hindered his performance.

Neymar’s injuries have resulted in numerous missed games, leaving Santos precariously positioned just above the relegation zone. Recent reports from BeIN Sports indicate that he has been experiencing knee discomfort and will not participate in Monday’s match against fellow relegation contenders Internacional, currently ranked 17th and 15th in the Brasileiro Serie A, respectively. Fortunately, medical assessments have shown no structural damage; however, the pain has raised concerns within the club.

With Neymar’s contract at Santos set to expire at the end of this year, he could become a free agent by early 2026, just six months before the World Cup. Although there has been no progress regarding a contract renewal, club president Marcelo Teixeira remains optimistic about reaching an agreement. He stated earlier this month, “Neymar’s project is the 2026 World Cup. If there’s consensus, he will extend. There is great trust between him and the club, and I believe we’ll find a solution at the right moment.”

Despite this optimism, Neymar’s future remains uncertain, particularly after club president Mario Bittencourt ruled out a move to rival Fluminense. He clarified via Twitter, “Regarding Neymar, I clarify that there has been no recent contact between Fluminense and the player, or his staff. Fluminense has immense respect for Santos, and obviously, the club and the player are 100% dedicated to winning the remaining games in the Brazilian Championship.”

Former Real Madrid manager and current Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti has addressed Neymar’s situation as well, issuing an ultimatum: stay fit and demonstrate excellent performance to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. He remarked, “Neymar is on the list of players who can go to the World Cup. He has six months to make the final list. Neymar has recovered, but he needs to show performance. When the Brazilian league ends, he’ll have some vacation time, and then he must show his quality and physical condition again.”

Ancelotti also advised Neymar on his playing style for the upcoming tournament, emphasizing the need for versatility: “The truth is that soccer today asks for many things, not just talent. Also physical condition, intensity. Hopefully, Neymar can be at his best level… He needs to play more centrally, not as a winger. Wingers today are expected to contribute defensively. When you play a little bit more inside, the defensive work is much less than if you play as a winger.”

As Santos prepares to face Internacional without Neymar, they aim to alleviate their relegation fears. Currently, they sit just one place and three points above the drop zone, with four critical fixtures remaining this season. Whether Neymar will contribute to their efforts in maintaining top-flight status remains uncertain.