Neymar ignores doctor’s advice to have surgery, attempts to play through knee injury

SAO PAULO — Brazilian football superstar Neymar is attempting to play through a knee injury despite medical advice to undergo surgery, according to media reports in Brazil.

The Santos forward tore the meniscus in his left knee and was advised to have arthroscopic surgery, which would likely rule him out for the remainder of the season.

Instead, Neymar has reportedly chosen to delay the procedure as Santos fights to avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division.

The injury is to the same knee that required major surgery after an ACL and meniscus tear last year. Team doctors have warned that continuing to play could worsen the damage and jeopardize his long-term recovery.

Neymar has returned to training, but it remains unclear whether he will be cleared to appear in Santos’ final matches as the club evaluates his condition.

Neymar’s Club Career Summary

1. Santos FC (2009–2013)

Neymar made his professional debut with Santos at age 17.

Became one of Brazil’s brightest young stars.

Won the Copa do Brasil (2010) and Copa Libertadores (2011).

Scored 136 goals in 225 matches before moving to Europe.

2. FC Barcelona (2013–2017)

Formed the legendary attacking trio “MSN” with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.

Won La Liga twice, the UEFA Champions League (2015), and the Club World Cup.

Scored 105 goals in 186 appearances.

3. Paris Saint-Germain (2017–2023)

Transferred for a world-record €222 million fee.

Won multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cups.

Reached the 2020 Champions League final.

Produced 118 goals in 173 appearances.

4. Al Hilal (2023–2024/25)

Joined the Saudi Pro League side in 2023.

Suffered a major ACL and meniscus injury shortly after joining.

Limited appearances due to injuries.

5. Santos FC (2025–present)

Returned to his boyhood club amid injury recovery and their relegation battle.

Working toward regaining full fitness while contributing in limited minutes.