Neymar’s Recovery Progress and Potential Return

After undergoing surgery on his knee, Santos head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has provided an optimistic update regarding the return of Brazilian star Neymar to the pitch. The forward was a standout performer during last season in the Brasileirão, delivering strong performances despite dealing with a knee injury that eventually required surgical intervention.

Neymar is currently in the recovery process, and the Santos coach has shared positive news about the player’s progress. He mentioned a rough timeline for the star’s return, which has generated excitement among fans of both the club and the Brazil national team. As Santos has already started their 2026 season with the Campeonato Paulista, ahead of the Brasileirão, the anticipation for Neymar’s return continues to grow.

During a post-match press conference following a draw against Corinthians, Vojvoda addressed the situation directly: “We’ll have him soon. Weeks or days—no more than that. He’s working well. I spoke with him and he was very tired because he’s doing double sessions.”

With Santos set to play six matches over the next 21 days, including the start of the Brasileirão, the Argentine coach raised expectations around Neymar’s comeback. “We have many games in a short span, but I see Neymar very committed to being ready as soon as possible and helping his boyhood club,” he concluded.

Neymar underwent arthroscopic surgery on December 22 to address a meniscus injury, which caused him to miss the team’s preseason at the beginning of 2026. According to Vojvoda, the forward has been completing double training sessions under the supervision of his personal physiotherapist, Rafael Martini, accelerating a recovery that was initially projected for mid-February.

According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, Neymar could make a return in one of Santos’ upcoming derby matches against São Paulo. The first meeting, a Campeonato Paulista clash on January 31, is considered unlikely, while the February 4 Brasileirão Matchday 2 fixture at Vila Belmiro is viewed as the ideal scenario for Neymar to gradually regain match fitness.

Key Player Loss for Santos

Despite avoiding relegation and securing qualification for the Copa Sudamericana, Santos’ board has focused on strengthening the squad around Neymar with signings such as Gabriel Barbosa, known as “Gabigol.” However, ahead of the 2026 season, the Peixe suffered a significant setback as one of their top young players completed a move to the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur have officially announced the signing of left back Souza from Santos. The 19-year-old had emerged as one of the club’s brightest prospects and one of the most promising talents in Brazilian soccer, attracting interest from several European sides before the London club finalized the deal for €15 million (approximately $18 million).

Additional Reading

• Christian Pulisic and USMNT stars receive stern 12-word warning about Mauricio Pochettino’s 2026 World Cup selections, and it includes Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe
• Neymar injury update: Potential return date for the Brazil star after knee surgery revealed
• Neymar sends strong warning ahead of 2026 World Cup: ‘Brazil will be champions again’