Neymar undergoes successful knee surgery, eyes 2026 world cup return

Brazil and Santos star Neymar has successfully undergone surgery on his left knee to repair a damaged meniscus, the club confirmed, Sport360NG reports.

The 33-year-old forward had been managing the injury during a challenging season with Santos, where he played a key role in helping the team avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division.

The arthroscopic procedure was performed by Brazil’s national team doctor, who previously treated Neymar for a foot fracture and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he sustained in 2023.

The operation improves Neymar’s prospects of being considered by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup squad. Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, has not featured for the national team in over two years.

After a brief stint at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, where he made only seven appearances in 18 months, Neymar returned to his boyhood club Santos in January. Despite his knee issues, he played a decisive role in securing the team’s top-flight survival, scoring five goals in the final four matches of the season.

Neymar’s current contract with Santos expires at the end of the year, though discussions over a potential extension are ongoing.