london: Brazilian star Neymar Jr. is expected to miss Santos’ last three league matches of the season after suffering a fresh knee setback, according to a report by ESPN on Wednesday. The 33-year-old forward, who is eyeing a return for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, felt discomfort in his left knee following Santos’ clash with Mirassol on November 19.
Neymar was absent from Santos’ 1-1 draw against Internacional on Monday after tests revealed a left meniscus injury. The setback comes just two years after he underwent surgery to repair an ACL tear and torn meniscus in the same knee.
This latest issue marks Neymar’s fourth injury since rejoining his boyhood club in January. While reports suggest he could be sidelined for the remainder of the season, Santos have not officially confirmed the extent of the injury.
Club President Teixeira: “We Are Trying Everything”
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira said Neymar underwent medical examinations in São Paulo on Tuesday and the club’s medical team is attempting to determine whether he can feature in Friday’s crucial match against Sport.
“He had an exam today in São Paulo,” Teixeira said. “I spoke with the medical department and they are studying a way for him to be in this game. The doctor hasn’t spoken to Neymar yet—he will speak to him tomorrow.
There will be a meeting tomorrow morning to assess the situation. We will investigate how we can delay whatever needs to be done, if anything, so that we can still use Neymar in the Brazilian Championship.”
Santos Battling Relegation
Santos currently sit in the relegation zone, one place and one point short of safety with three matches remaining. Neymar, meanwhile, has struggled for consistent playing time due to ongoing fitness issues. He last featured for the Brazil national team in October 2023, when he sustained the severe knee ligament injury that has hampered his return.
