Neymar will miss the remaining matches of 2025 due to a serious meniscus ligament injury in his left knee while playing for Santos. This injury requires surgery and a lengthy recovery period. With only three matches left, Santos is currently in the relegation zone, so Neymar’s absence will significantly impact the team.
This injury raises serious doubts about Neymar’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, as his chances of returning to full fitness before the tournament are now uncertain.
In 2025, Neymar also faced issues with a hamstring injury and various muscle-related problems, which had kept him off the field. Brazil’s national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, had given Neymar six months to prove his fitness ahead of the World Cup. However, due to this new injury, it is unlikely that Neymar will achieve that goal.