Neymar participated in ball training this Monday at CT Rei Pelé, joining the Santos squad during the physical transition after surgery on his left knee. The activity marked significant progress in the recovery process of the striker, who has not played since the end of the previous season.
The player performed exercises alongside his teammates, following a schedule established by the medical department and the technical committee. Apesar of progress, his presence in the classic against São Paulo remains uncertain.
The clash takes place on Wednesday, at 8pm, at Vila Belmiro, for the second round of Campeonato Brasileiro. Santos seeks recovery after defeat in its debut.
Progress in physical transition
Neymar started the week with full work on the pitch, unlike previous sessions in which he only performed parts of the ball exercises. Essa evolution allows greater integration with the group, preparing the athlete for greater training loads.
The medical department monitors the left knee’s response to exertion daily. The meniscus surgery, carried out in December 2025, required a period of intense rehabilitation, with an initial focus on physiotherapy and muscle strengthening.
Activities carried out in CT
This Monday’s training included technical and physical exercises with the main squad. Neymar performed short passes and ball control movements, without intense physical contact.
The technical committee, led by Juan Pablo Vojvoda, observed the number 10’s performance closely. Outros players also participated in the session, preparing for the week’s commitment.
- Main exercises observed:
- Control and control of the ball in a reduced space.
- Short and medium distance passes.
- Coordination movements without direct opposition.
- Complementary strength work at the gym.
Casting situation for the classic
Santos faces confirmed absences for the game against São Paulo. Willian Arão remains sidelined after surgery to remove kidney stones, expected to return in at least a week.
Gustavo Henrique is treating an injury to the adductor muscle in his right thigh and is not fit to play. Esses absences force tactical adjustments in the team.
Other athletes, like those who played in the debut against Chapecoense, carried out regenerative work. The 4-2 defeat in the first round increased the need for points at home.
Context of the recovery of Neymar
Surgery on his left knee took place in Belo Horizonte, at the end of 2025, interrupting the striker’s streak of games. Desde So, the player maintained an individual training routine, including during breaks from the squad.
At the beginning of January 2026, Neymar advanced to the transition phase on the lawn. The first contact with the ball happened at the end of last month, still in isolation.
Gradual integration into the group took place in recent weeks. The main objective involves regaining momentum for national and international competitions throughout the year.
Preparation for Brasileirão
Santos started Campeonato Brasileiro with a negative result away from home. The team conceded four goals in Arena Condá, exposing defensive weaknesses that need correction.
Vojvoda adjusted the tactical scheme in recent training sessions, prioritizing compactness and quick exits. The possible presence of Neymar influences offensive options.
The classic at Vila Belmiro represents an opportunity for recovery in the table. The stadium should receive a significant audience, taking advantage of the gradual return of the main player.
Recent history at the club
Neymar returned to Santos for the 2026 season with a renewed contract, aiming for a longer sequence of games. His previous spell at the club, at the end of 2025, included decisive participation in matches that avoided relegation.
The striker contributed goals and assists at key moments. Agora, the recovery aims to repeat the impact, adapting to the dense calendar.
The squad has reinforcements hired to complement the offensive sector. Jogadores as Lautaro Díaz and Rollheiser share creation responsibilities.
Expectations of the coaching staff
Vojvoda remains cautious about the immediate use of Neymar in official games. The final decision depends on the medical evaluation after the next training sessions.
The coach highlighted the importance of patience in the process. Outros staff members monitor daily physical indicators.
The schedule includes specific tactical sessions before the classic. The focus remains on collective and individual evolution.
Details of the scheduled clash
The game against São Paulo takes place on Wednesday, at 8pm, broadcast on television channels and digital platforms. The Vila Belmiro undergoes adjustments to receive fans.
The opponent is also looking for points after the mixed initial round. Recent Histórico between the teams shows balance in direct duels.
Santos prioritizes victory at home to gain early confidence in Brasileirão. The competition requires regularity from the first rounds.
Weekly evolution in training
In previous sessions, Neymar limited himself to physical work in the gym and light runs on the lawn. The inclusion of the ball marked an important step.
Companions reported good spirits during joint activities. The number 10 demonstrated precision in his passes.
The load increases progressively, depending on the knee’s tolerance. Monitores record data for planning adjustments.
Impact on annual planning
The full return of Neymar aligns with the club’s goals for the semester. Participação in continental competitions depends on a full squad.
The attacker maintains additional focus on preparing for Fifa dates. Ritmo of accumulated game facilitates future summons.
Santos invests in medical infrastructure to support demands. Profissionais follow similar cases in the cast.
Tactical analysis for the classic
Vojvoda tests formations with and without Neymar in training. The player’s presence changes the offensive dynamics, opening up spaces.
Defense works on corrections after goals conceded on debut. Meio-campo seeks greater ownership to control actions.
Attack prioritizes quick transitions, exploiting speed. Opções on the bench increases variations during matches.
Current Lawn Conditions
CT Rei Pelé offers a complete recovery structure. Gramado main receives regular maintenance.
Neymar used specific areas for ball exercises. Condições The climate in Santos favors outdoor training.
Multidisciplinary team coordinates daily steps. Resultados guide game release decisions.
The progress of Neymar this Monday reinforces cautious optimism in the Santos. The doubt for the classic persists, depending on final evaluations.
The team focuses its efforts on collective preparation. The classic represents an important test in the national competition.
