Neymar undergoes successful knee surgery while negotiating contract extension with Santos
Brazilian star Neymar had successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Monday and will begin rehabilitation, with expectations to return within three months.
December 22, 2025 - 12:39 PM ET • 2 min read
Neymar underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Monday morning at Mater Dei Nova Lima hospital in Belo Horizonte, performed by Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar, Brazil's national team physician, and his medical team.
The procedure addressed a medial meniscus injury that caused pain during the final stretch of the Brazilian league season. Santos confirmed the surgery was successful and the player is recovering well. Neymar is expected to begin physiotherapy immediately and will be sidelined for up to three months.
The 32-year-old played through the injury during the final three rounds of the Brasileirão, helping Santos avoid relegation despite the physical toll. He spent Sunday night in the hospital ahead of Monday's procedure and is expected to return to training within approximately one month to prepare for the 2026 season.
Neymar's recovery timeline aims to have him fit for competitive play in 2026 without ongoing physical complications. The player has expressed his focus on regaining full fitness and returning to Brazil's national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to begin in June.
Beyond the medical situation, Neymar is negotiating a contract renewal with Santos for an additional six months. The club and player are expected to finalize the agreement in the coming days. Neymar made a personal appeal to coach Carlo Ancelotti on Saturday, pledging to do everything possible to earn a place in Brazil's World Cup squad for the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite uncertainty over his selection and the need to demonstrate full fitness on the pitch.