Neymar's World Cup 2026 dream in doubt; Santos star to undergo knee surgery

The Brazilian star delayed his knee surgery to save Santos from relegation.

Neymar’s odds of competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup are in doubt. He will undergo knee surgery after playing in agony to help his childhood team, Santos, avoid relegation from Brazil’s Serie A.

After being promoted from the second division ahead of this season, Santos defeated Cruzeiro 3-0 on Sunday. The 33-year-old played the entire ninety minutes.

After making just seven outings for Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal over the course of 18 months, Neymar returned to Brazil’s top division in January. He was instrumental in Santos’ safety by scoring five goals in their final four games of the season.

Neymar will now undergo knee surgery after some rest

“I came for this, to try to help in the best way I can,” Neymar told reporters after the game. “These have been tough weeks for me.”

“I thank those who were with me to lift me up. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t have played these matches because of this knee problem.”

Since a loss to Uruguay in October 2023, injuries have prevented Brazil’s all-time best scorer, who has scored 79 goals in 128 games, from playing for his country.

Neymar added, “I need to rest, and then I will have this knee surgery.”

He did not provide any information about the procedure or an estimated time of recuperation.

In October, Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that for the forward to return to his team for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States next summer, he must restore full fitness and be in form.

Neymar’s contract expires in a few weeks. Negotiations are still tricky because of his upcoming operation, so Santos now have to make a crucial decision.

It is anticipated that the club will continue to communicate with his representation. But any new deal will be contingent upon recovery estimates and clarification over his long-term physical status. The current time makes a quick resolution difficult, regardless of the attachment on both sides.

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