Neymar Jr., Santos striker, underwent arthroscopy on his left knee this Monday, December 22, in The procedure corrected a tear in the medial meniscus and lasted around an hour and a half, being considered a success by the medical team.
The player was operated on by doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, responsible for the Brazilian team, at Hospital Mater Dei. Neymar arrived in the capital of Minas Gerais on Sunday and was already hospitalized for the procedure. Ele was discharged in the early afternoon and began recovery immediately.
The injury affected the same left knee that suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in 2023. Apesar of the pain in the final stretch of Campeonato Brasileiro,
- The procedure was minimally invasive, focusing on meniscus correction.
- Recovery will be coordinated by private physiotherapist Rafael Martini.
- Santos follows the process and receives regular updates.
Details of the surgical procedure
The operation took place on Monday morning and involved a team led by Rodrigo Lasmar. Fontes Doctors indicate that arthroscopies for medial meniscus injuries generally produce good results in professional athletes.
Neymar published images of the hospital on social media before the surgery, demonstrating calm. The club issued an official statement confirming the success of the procedure and the player’s good health.
Estimated recovery period
Experts point out that the time off for this type of intervention varies around a month. Neymar should return to gradual training in January, with the possibility of being ready for official matches in early February.
The Santos schedule includes an in-person re-presentation on January 2nd and a premiere on Campeonato Paulista against Novorizontino on January 11th. Absence in the pre-season does not change the athlete’s long-term plans.
This estimate considers Neymar’s history of similar recoveries. The initial focus will be on muscle strengthening and knee mobility to prevent recurrence.
Contractual situation with Santos
Neymar’s current contract with Santos ends on December 31st. Negociações for extension for another six months are moving forward, with a positive trend for renewal until mid-2026.
The Santos board prioritizes the continuity of the project that began with the player’s return in January 2025. Apesar of injuries throughout the year, Neymar recorded important contributions, including decisive goals in the fight against relegation.
- Conversations involve financial adjustments and productivity clauses.
- Physical recovery is seen as a key factor in the agreement.
- The club receives detailed reports on the athlete’s progress.
- Neymar expressed his desire to prioritize Santos in recent statements.
Recent injury history
Neymar faced multiple physical problems in 2025, but maintained his presence on the field when possible. The meniscus injury was recently diagnosed, after persistent pain in the final stretch of Brasileirão.
The player played with extra protection on his knee in the last few rounds. Sua participation was essential for victories that guaranteed a place in the Sul-Americana.
In 2025, Neymar played 28 games for Santos, scoring 11 goals and distributing four assists. His return to the club marked a second spell after years abroad.
Preparation for the 2026 season
With the surgery complete, Neymar’s staff plans intensive rehabilitation. The main objective is to arrive in full condition for the beginning of the year, including Campeonato Paulista and Brasileirão.
The Brazilian team monitors the case through Rodrigo Lasmar. Neymar publicly expressed the desire to compete in the Copa of the Mundo in 2026, promising efforts to win the sixth championship.
Santos begins planning for 2026 with a focus on reinforcements and maintenance of key parts. The possible renewal with Neymar is considered essential for the sports project.
Official club note
Santos released a statement confirming all the details of the operation. The hospital discharge occurred as scheduled, and the player traveled to São Paulo by private jet.
The rehabilitation will be carried out privately, but with monitoring by the Santos medical department. Atualizações will be provided periodically to fans.
Medical aspects of the injury
Injuries to the medial meniscus are common in high-performance athletes due to rotational movements. Arthroscopy allows precise correction with low invasiveness, reducing the risk of complications.
Doctors emphasize the importance of initial rest followed by progressive physical therapy. Neymar has an experienced team to manage the process.
Similar cases in professional players show quick returns when the protocol is strictly followed. The age of 33 is not a limiting factor for full recovery.
