The expectation of Santos fans to see Neymar on the field only grows, even more so with poor results. He was left out of the classic against São Paulo this Wednesday (04) and the question remains: when will Neymar return to play?
The star, who underwent arthroscopy on his left knee in December 2025 to remove the meniscus, is already in the final phase of his physical transition.
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When will Neymar play for Santos again?
Although Neymar already trains with the ball at CT Rei Pelé, the coaching staff chose not to speed up the process for this mid-week classic. The idea is that “Menino da Vila” is 100% able to withstand the intensity of the Brazilian calendar.
With San-São falling behind, Santos has two immediate commitments where the playmaker’s presence is practically certain, either as a starter or entering during the match:
- Noroeste x Santos (08/02): Through Paulistão, in Bauru. It’s an important game against relegation in the Campeonato Paulista.
- Athletico-PR x Santos (12/02): For Brasileirão. If the return occurs against Noroeste, the expectation is that against Furacão, Neymar will be able to play for at least 60 to 70 minutes
Neymar in the World Cup?
Neymar’s return is not just a club issue. With the contract renewed until the end of 2026, the player and his staff treat this first semester as decisive.
Santos leads its group in the state and sees the return of its idol as an asset to seek the title that has not been won since 2016, in addition to consolidating its position in the G-4 of the Brazilian Championship.
