Santos Star’s World Cup Hopes and Club Contract in Question After Meniscus Operation
Brazilian star Neymar has undergone successful surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, his club Santos confirmed on Monday. The procedure, performed by the Brazilian national team doctor, throws the veteran forward’s immediate playing future into doubt, casting a shadow over both his club contract negotiations and his hopes of featuring in the 2026 World Cup.
“The operation was successful and the player is doing well,” Santos stated, describing the procedure as an arthroscopy to treat a tear in the medial meniscus.
The surgery caps a challenging but ultimately pivotal first season back at his boyhood club for the 33-year-old. Plagued by recurring injuries, Neymar still managed to deliver when it mattered most, scoring five crucial goals in the final five games to help Santos narrowly avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division. He finishes the campaign with eight goals in 20 league matches.
Despite that vital contribution, his stay at Santos is uncertain. His contract expires at the end of the year, though the club has confirmed talks are ongoing about a possible extension.
A larger question now looms over his international career. The Seleção’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals has not played for Brazil since suffering a serious knee injury against Uruguay in October 2023. He has yet to be called up by new manager Carlo Ancelotti, and this latest setback places his dream of competing in a fourth World Cup in serious jeopardy. For now, Neymar’s focus shifts to recovery, with his long-term path in football hanging in the balance.
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