Neymar undergoes successful knee surgery, eyes 2026 World Cup return
The 33-year-old had played through injuries this season, playing a key role in keeping Santos in Brazil’s top-flight league.
KATHMANDU: Brazil and Santos forward Neymar has successfully undergone surgery on his left knee to address a meniscus issue.
The 33-year-old had played through injuries this season, playing a key role in keeping Santos in Brazil’s top-flight league.
According to Santos, Brazilian national team doctors performed the arthroscopic procedure—the same specialists who previously treated Neymar’s leg fracture and ACL injury in 2023.
The operation raises hopes for Neymar’s return to the Brazil squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He is Brazil’s all-time top scorer, netting 79 goals in 128 appearances, although he has been absent from the national team for over two years.
Neymar returned to Santos in January from Saudi club Al-Hilal, scoring five goals in the final four games of the season to help secure the club’s top-tier status.
His current contract with Santos runs until the end of this year, with talks underway for a possible renewal.
