Neymar returns from 70-day injury layoff, records assist in Santos' 6-0 win
The Brazilian forward played 45 minutes in his first match since undergoing left knee arthroscopy surgery in December, setting up a goal despite a late sliding challenge.
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Neymar made his return to competitive play Sunday after 70 days sidelined by a left knee injury, appearing as a substitute in Santos' 6-0 victory over Velo Clube in the Campeonato Paulista.
The 34-year-old forward entered at halftime, replacing Argentine midfielder Álvaro Barreal when Santos already led 3-0. He played 45 minutes in the match at Vila Belmiro stadium, his first appearance since December 7, 2025, when he faced Cruzeiro before undergoing arthroscopy surgery on his left knee meniscus.
Neymar's return was marked by both relief and concern. In the 78th minute, Velo Clube defender Islan slid in with his studs forward and made contact with the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player, leaving him visibly in pain. Islan received a yellow card for the challenge.
The Brazilian recovered from the incident and three minutes later set up Gabriel Barbosa for Santos' fifth goal of the match. Benjamin Rollheiser scored the sixth goal in the rout.
Neymar, who rejoined Santos in January 2025 after leaving Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal by mutual consent, had been working to regain match fitness following the December surgery. Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda selected him for the final Campeonato Paulista fixture with Santos' quarterfinal qualification already secured.
The victory moved Santos to eighth place in the Campeonato Paulista standings. Neymar is scheduled to play in the Copa Sudamericana later in 2026.