Neymar Trains Against Doctor’s Advice Amid Knee Injury

Neymar injury drama continues as the Brazilian superstar was seen on the Santos training ground, defying medical recommendations in a desperate effort to help his team avoid relegation. The 33-year-old forward faces a critical decision as doctors warn that pushing through his knee injury could end his season—or worse, risk his longer-term career.

Neymar Injury Setback Jeopardizes Santos’ Survival Hopes

The Neymar injury saga has cast a shadow over Santos FC’s season, with the club now teetering just above the relegation zone in the Brasileiro Serie A. After returning from a lengthy hamstring layoff, Neymar suffered meniscus damage in his left knee, forcing him to miss the 1-1 draw with Internacional. The medical team has advised immediate arthroscopic surgery, a step that would sideline him for at least a month—effectively ruling him out of the final matches that will determine Santos’ fate.

Manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda admitted the dilemma, stating, “Neymar is our leader on the field. He wants to help, but his knee discomfort has worsened. We respect his decision, but the risk is high.”

Neymar Injury Update: Trains With Caution, Avoids Contact

Despite warnings, Neymar was back in training on Wednesday. Footage shows him participating with his teammates, but clearly not at full fitness, wearing a brace on his injured knee and steering clear of physical contact. Globo reports confirm Neymar is enduring persistent pain, and medical staff insist “any major impact could cause the knee to burst,” potentially sidelining him for the start of 2026 and jeopardizing his Brazil national team ambitions.

Why Neymar Is Risking It All for Santos

Neymar’s determination stems from his deep ties to Santos, the club where he launched his illustrious career. Since rejoining his boyhood team after leaving Al-Hilal, his return has been mixed—seven goals and three assists in 25 appearances, while nagging injuries have kept him on the sidelines. With his contract ending this year, a premature surgery could mean he’s played his last game for Santos, unless the club extend his deal and secure top-flight safety.

Santos currently sit just one spot above the drop zone with three crucial matches left, starting with a must-win clash against bottom-placed Sport Recife. The pressure is mounting, as rivals Fortaleza have closed the gap in the standings. For Neymar, playing through pain is about more than personal achievement; it’s about legacy and loyalty to the club that made him a star.

Medical Perspective: The Risks of Ignoring Neymar Injury Advice

Doctors have left no doubt regarding the severity of Neymar’s injury. The recommendation for immediate arthroscopy is based on the risk of catastrophic damage if he continues to play. While the surgery is minimally invasive, recovery would put him out of contention at a critical moment for Santos. Yet, Neymar’s desire to rescue his team from relegation is pitted against the possibility of long-term harm, both to his club and international career.

What’s Next for Neymar and Santos?

Santos’ future—and possibly Neymar’s—rests on the next three matches. The team hosts Sport Recife next, a fixture that could define their season. If Santos fail to secure points, relegation becomes a grim reality, and the club’s ability to retain top talents like Neymar may falter.

As Neymar weighs his options, the football world watches closely. Will he risk his health for the club’s survival, or heed the advice of doctors and focus on long-term recovery?

For more updates and expert opinions on Neymar injury developments and Brazilian football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Neymar’s Grit Is Admirable, but Caution Is Warranted

Watching Neymar defy medical advice to help Santos is a testament to his character and loyalty. Yet, passion must be balanced with prudence—especially when the risks could impact both his career and the club’s hopes. While Santos need their leader on the pitch, the long-term consequences of aggravating the injury could outweigh the immediate gain. The club and player must tread carefully in these decisive weeks.