Neymar’s Journey: Aiming for Recovery and World Cup Glory

omidbasir- Neymar, now 34 years old, has encountered increasing challenges in avoiding the treatment table. In December 2025, he underwent further surgery to address a long-standing knee issue, following a year spent sidelined due to anterior cruciate ligament damage.

Having returned to the pitch with Santos, Neymar has embraced a return to his roots in South America and is relishing the game once more, having secured a contract extension that will keep him with the club until the end of the calendar year.

A top priority for the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star is earning a recall to the Brazilian national team. He has not played for the Selecao since October 2023, and decisions regarding his playing future will be made after another attempt to capture the elusive World Cup title.

In a recent interview with CazeTV, Neymar reflected on his uncertain future, stating, “I don’t know what the future holds for me. It’s possible that in December I’ll want to retire. I’m living day by day. This year is crucial, not just for Santos, but also for the Brazilian national team and for me.”

On his ongoing journey to regain full match fitness and sharpness, Neymar commented, “I wanted to return at 100% this season, which is why I was rested for some matches. I understand that many people have opinions and may not grasp the reality of my situation, but I must confront it. Santos has implemented an excellent plan for my recovery.

“Of course, I wanted to help my team immediately, but ultimately, I chose to prioritize my health, aiming to return pain-free and in peak form. I performed well in my last match and feel relieved to be back, stronger than before. I know I must regain my rhythm, and with perseverance, I will reach 100%. I’m taking it step by step, allowing my instincts to guide me.”

As Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals and 128 caps since his senior debut in 2010, Neymar has the support of figures like Carlo Ancelotti, who encourages him to earn his place in the current squad.

Kleberson, a World Cup winner from 2002, believes that Neymar must be included in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming tournament. He remarked to GOAL, “I really want to see Neymar at the World Cup. In terms of fitness, he is currently behind many others due to his injuries and limited playing time over the past year.

“However, as soon as he finds his rhythm and improves his fitness, he could be incredibly beneficial. While he may not enter the World Cup at 100% capacity, his unique abilities make him a formidable presence as the tournament progresses. He is unrivaled in talent among Brazilian players, drawing comparisons to legends like Ronaldinho.”

Brazil has been placed in Group C for the 2026 World Cup. Their campaign for glory will commence against Morocco at MetLife Stadium on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in Philadelphia and Miami, respectively.