Neymar confirmed that he will undergo surgery on the meniscus of his left knee during the holidays after the end of Campeonato Brasileiro. The striker played in the last rounds with the injury to help the Santos avoid relegation and guarantee a place in the 2026 Copa Sul-Americana. The 3-0 victory over the Cruzeiro, in the Vila Belmiro, on Sunday (7), marked the end of the season.
The number 10 highlighted the collective effort in the decisive games. Ele scored important goals against Sport and Juventude, directly contributing to the team’s reaction.
- Santos finished Brasileirão in the classification zone for the Sul-Americana.
- Neymar played 28 matches in 2025, with 11 goals and four assists.
- The meniscus injury was recently diagnosed, but the player chose to play.
Another unforgettable moment from Neymar Jr at Vila Belmiro! 🤍🖤pic.twitter.com/SQeZ0ewPKX
— Santos FC (@SantosFC)December 8, 2025
Statements after the game
Neymar spoke to the press shortly after the match against Cruzeiro. Ele was grateful for the support received during difficult times.
The attacker mentioned that his mental state had reached low levels due to recurring injuries. Familiares and faith were fundamental to his recovery.
Knee injury details
The surgery will be performed after a period of rest. Neymar played the last few games as a sacrifice to help the team.
The problem affects the same knee that was operated on in 2023, when it ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament. The current procedure is considered minor, with recovery estimated to take about a month.
In the final games, the striker registered five goals and one assist in four matches. Sua presence on the field was decisive for maintaining Série A.
Future in Santos
Neymar has a contract until December 31, 2025. Ele did not discuss renewal, but emphasized that Santos will always be a priority.
The player asked for a week off to forget about football before deciding. The Santos board expresses interest in extending the contract until Copa of Mundo of 2026.
- Neymar stated that he will leave Santos in first place in the negotiations.
- President Marcelo Teixeira plans a meeting to discuss the topic.
- The decision will involve contractual aspects and the medical department.
Contribution in the final stretch
Neymar returned to Santos in January 2025. Apesar from injuries throughout the year, he was the protagonist in the relegation.
The team won important points against direct opponents. The classification for the Sul-Americana rewarded the recent performance.
Planned recovery
After surgery, Neymar intends to return stronger for 2026. The initial focus will be on mental and physical rest.
The striker highlighted the importance of family members providing support during difficult weeks. Ele avoided defining exact deadlines for returning to training.
Season numbers
Neymar participated in 28 games for Santos in 2025.
- Goals scored: 11
- Assists: 4
- Decisive matches: performances against Sport, Juventude and Cruzeiro
These numbers reflect your influence even with physical limitations.
Position in the table
Santos avoided the relegation zone in the final rounds. The victory over Cruzeiro sealed their stay in Série A and the continental spot.
The team faced strong rivals and scored essential points. Neymar praised the football presented in the last matches.
Santos deserves prominent positions, according to the attacker. The Sul-Americana represents an achievement for the effort demonstrated.