The attackerNeymar Jr, from Santos, underwent arthroscopy on his left knee this Monday (22), on Nova Lima, on Região Metropolitana of Belo Horizonte. The procedure treated an injury to the medial meniscus and was considered a success by the medical team. Neymar was discharged this afternoon and immediately begins the rehabilitation process.
The player felt pain in the region during the final stretch of Campeonato Brasileiro 2025. Ele chose to postpone the intervention to help Santos avoid relegation. The surgery was conducted by doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, responsible for the medical department at Seleção Brasileira.
- The procedure lasted about an hour and a half.
- There were no complications.
- The athlete is doing well after the operation.
Neymar traveled to Minas Gerais on Sunday (21) and checked into Hospital Mater Dei. Ele published images on social media showing preparation for the procedure.
Surgical procedure
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that corrects problems such as meniscus tears. In the case of Neymar, the injury occurred in November, during training or playing for Santos. Exames identified the problem, but the player operated with special protections in the last rounds.
Rodrigo Lasmar led the medical team, with experience in surgeries for high-performance athletes. Hospital Mater Dei has performed similar procedures on Neymar in the past. The choice of Minas Gerais reflects confidence in the professional and the local structure.
Initial recovery
Neymar will be discharged this Monday and will begin physiotherapy under the coordination of Rafael Martini, a professional who has been following the player for years. The estimated recovery is about a month before returning to the field. The striker is expected to miss the Santos pre-season, which starts in January.
The initial focus includes rest and controlled exercise to strengthen the muscles around the knee. Neymar plans to spend the end of the year with his family in São Paulo. Ele demonstrates optimism about the process.
Santos issued an official statement confirming the success of the operation. The club closely monitors the player’s evolution.
History of knee injuries
Neymar has previously faced serious problems with his left knee. In 2023, he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus while defending Al-Hilal. On that occasion, it also operated in Belo Horizonte with Lasmar.
These injuries have impacted the striker’s career in recent years. In 2025, he played around 28 games for Santos, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists. Apesar of the limitations, contributed decisively to staying in Série A and a place in Sul-Americana.
The player worked with infiltrations and protections in the final rounds of Brasileirão. Ele avoided the club’s relegation.
Preparation for the season
Santos will be presented again virtually on December 26th and in person on January 2nd. The debut for Paulista takes place on January 11, against Novorizontino. Neymar should only return in February, depending on developments.
The recovery defines part of the club’s planning for 2026. Santos competes against Paulistão, Brasileirão, Copa from Brasil and
- Pre-season without Neymar.
- Focus on gradual fitness.
- Constant monitoring by the technical committee.
Contractual situation
Neymar’s contract with Santos expires on December 31st. Negociações for renewal are moving forward, with a tendency to extend for another six months. The player expresses a desire to remain until Mundial of Clubes.
The board is waiting for the post-operative period to formalize agreements. Neymar prioritizes the project of Santos.
Look at the selection
The surgery aligns with the attacker’s larger goals. Neymar seeks full physical condition for possible call-ups in 2026. Ele has not played for Seleção Brasileira for two years due to injuries.
Recently, he expressed confidence in competing for Copa of Mundo. The current recovery is an important step on this path. Doctor Lasmar follows both the club and the CBF.
Neymar maintains an individual training routine even during vacation. Ele focuses on returning stronger.
Rehabilitation stages
Physiotherapy includes progressive phases after arthroscopy.
- First days: rest and swelling control.
- Initial week: light movements and strengthening.
- Middle of the process: specific knee exercises.
- Final phase: ball training and game simulations.
Rafael Martini coordinates all planning. Ele has been a trusted professional for the player for a long time. The goal is to avoid recurrences and ensure joint stability.
Experts consider the procedure simple with a good prognosis. Neymar follows protocols similar to previous surgeries.
