Santos temper expectations as Neymar steps up recovery from knee surgery

From Moses Hope

Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda says the club is pleased with Neymar’s progress after knee surgery but stressed that the forward will only return once he is physically ready, as per ESPN.

Neymar, who celebrated his 34th birthday this week, rejoined team training for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Dec. 22 to address a meniscus injury. His recovery has fueled speculation in Brazil that he could make an appearance as early as Sunday against Club Noroeste in the Campeonato Paulista.

Vojvoda pushed back on that idea, noting that the club intends to be cautious. He said Neymar has resumed working with the squad, but given the player’s personal ambitions—including earning a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad—he must reach full fitness before returning to competition.

The coach added that Neymar has been fully committed to his rehabilitation and daily training battles, but emphasized that the focus remains on long-term readiness rather than short-term excitement.

Neymar played a key role in helping Santos avoid relegation last season, and he has not represented Brazil since October 2023 due to recurring injuries. Despite his long spell on the sidelines, he remains the national team’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals.

New Santos signing Gabriel Barbosa, who arrived on loan from Cruzeiro in January, urged patience as well. Barbosa said he does not view Neymar as a one-man solution, describing him instead as an influential teammate whose presence and leadership are valued within the squad. He added that the team hopes to support Neymar so he can return without excessive expectations and enjoy his football again—both for Santos and for Brazil.