Neymar’s Santos return ends early due to a knee injury, casting doubt on the World Cup 2026.
Author : Football World Cup Tickets | Published On : 27 Nov 2025
Neymar’s highly anticipated return to Brazilian Football with Santos has fatefully set back ahead of the World Cup 2026. The 33-year-old forward is expected to miss the rest of the season due to a serious knee injury. Neymar hasn’t featured for Brazil since October 2023, and ongoing health concerns cast doubt over his chances of returning to the national team for the competition in North America.
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He was absent from the recent 1-1 draw against International, and medical examinations confirmed that Neymar has a meniscus tear in his left knee. This injury rules him out of the upcoming important match against Sport Recife Football World Cup, as well as the final two vital matches of the Brasileirao season.
Santos initially believed Neymar was dealing with only minor discomfort, but it now seems his season is over after a difficult year. With the club sitting 17th in the standings and facing the threat of relegation, losing their key player at FIFA 2026 such a crucial moment is a significant setback. The team will now have to find ways to cope without their star forward as they fight to stay in the top division.
Neymar’s Difficult Comeback at Santos Hindered by Injuries, Clouds FIFA 2026
Ever since his return to Santos, Neymar’s experience has been challenging. His comeback drew mixed reactions, including criticism online for unsuccessful moves. Despite these obstacles, he scored four goals in 17 league matches. However, His recent injury is unfortunately likely to end his season prematurely with the Sao Paulo-based club.
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Head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda previously expressed hope that Neymar would return in time to help the team avoid relegation. After the draw against International, he mentioned, the plan is for him to play in the match against Sport. I haven’t had a chance to speak with him personally today, but I will respect his decisions. Neymar is dedicated and always eager to be on the field. He’s a leader for us, and we expect him to participate. He felt he wasn’t able to meet the demands of today’s game.
This injury adds to a series of physical setbacks Neymar has faced since rejoining Santos, including hamstring and thigh issues that have limited his playing time and impact. Overall, he has netted just seven goals across all competitions this year. These repeated fitness problems raise doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level again, especially with the FIFA 2026 approaching.
Ancelotti Points to Neymar’s Fitness and Adaptation as Crucial for the Soccer World Cup 2026.
According to Ancelotti, Neymar has recovered from his injury but still needs to maintain steady and strong performances. During the recent international break, he mentioned that once the Brazilian league concludes, Neymar will have some valuable time to rest before proving his skills and physical readiness once again.
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Earlier this month, Carlo Ancelotti, former Real Madrid coach and current manager of Saudi Arabia’s Al Nasr, shared his thoughts on what Neymar must do to earn a spot on Brazil’s Soccer World Cup team. He emphasized that Neymar may need to adjust his playing style and take on a new role on the pitch.
The modern Football World Cup requires more than just skill. It demands high levels of fitness and consistent intensity. Ancelotti expressed hope that Neymar will regain his peak form and meet these challenges in time for the World Cup 2026, showing both physical and mental resilience.
Neymar Confronts Decisive Sets Amid Physical Struggles and Injury Uncertainty Before the Football World Cup.
Ancelotti suggested that Neymar should operate more in the central areas rather than staying wide as a winger. This is because modern wingers are required to put in significant defensive effort, which can be very physically demanding. Adopting a central role could help Neymar conserve energy while still influencing the game offensively.
Playing in a more central position generally reduces the defensive responsibilities compared to the wide areas on the pitch, making it a less strenuous role in terms of defense. This change might allow Neymar to better manage his workload and focus on creating scoring opportunities.
However, Neymar’s current injury complicates his ability to recover quickly. Additionally, with his short-term contract at Santos ending in 2025, it is uncertain if the club will keep him beyond that, especially with the World Cup scheduled for FIFA 2026. His future at both club and international levels remains unclear amid these challenges.
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1. What injury has Neymar suffered, and how will it affect his season?
Neymar has a meniscus injury in his left knee, which will keep him out for the rest of Santos’ 2025 season. This means he will miss the remaining three crucial games, including the fight against relegation.
2. How has Neymar’s return to Santos been overall?
Neymar’s comeback has been difficult. Though he scored four goals in 17 league matches, injuries and inconsistent performances have hampered his impact. Fans have also had mixed reactions, sometimes mocking his skill attempts on social media.
3. What did Santos’ coach say about Neymar’s availability?
Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda had hoped Neymar would return for the crucial matches and called him the team’s leader. However, after the injury diagnosis, it’s clear Neymar cannot play for the rest of the campaign.
4. How do Neymar’s injury troubles affect his chances with the Brazil national team?
Through enduring fitness problems and no appearances since October 2023, Neymar’s chances of playing for Brazil in the FIFA World Cup 2026 are uncertain. He must regain full fitness and perform well to be considered.
5. What role change did Carlo Ancelotti suggest for Neymar?
Ancelotti advised Neymar to play more centrally rather than as a winger, as modern wide players need to contribute a lot defensively. Playing inside would reduce Neymar’s physical demands and potentially extend his effectiveness.
