Neymar has undergone successful surgery on his left knee, keeping alive his hopes of returning to the Brazil squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 33-year-old Santos forward had an arthroscopic procedure on Monday to repair a damaged meniscus, the club confirmed. Brazil’s national team doctor carried out the operation, having previously treated Neymar for a foot fracture and the ruptured anterior cruciate ligament he suffered against Uruguay in October 2023.
Neymar endured a difficult campaign with Santos, playing through the injury in an effort to help the club avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division. His commitment proved crucial as Santos secured survival late in the season.
Posting on social media, Neymar said the surgery had been completed successfully and suggested he could return to action in time to be considered for Brazil’s World Cup plans. He is expected to be sidelined for around a month.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward has not represented Brazil for more than two years, with his last appearance coming against Uruguay in 2023. Despite the lengthy absence, he remains optimistic about featuring in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s contract with Santos expires at the end of the year, although discussions are ongoing over a possible extension.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar has netted 79 goals in 128 international appearances.
