when will neymar play his next match

Neymar's Next Match: Latest Updates Neymar, back with Santos FC after extending his contract through 2026, underwent minor knee surgery in late December 2025 but began light training in early January. He's been sidelined for recent Paulistão matches, including Santos vs. São Paulo on February 5, due to ongoing recovery from meniscus issues.

Expected Return Timeline

Reports point to Sunday, February 9, 2026 , when Santos faces Noroeste in the Paulistão's penultimate round as his likely debut back. This aligns with cautious optimism from club updates, assuming no setbacks in his rehab—today's date makes it potentially tonight if fit.

• Key recovery milestones : Surgery (Dec 22, 2025), gym work (early Jan 2026), light training sessions.

• Missed games : Early Paulistão fixtures; full Serie A fitness eyed later this month.

Injury Context and Stakes

Neymar's knee troubles stem from a 2023 ACL tear, with this meniscus fix labeled low-risk (weeks recovery). At 33 (birthday this February), consistent Santos play is crucial for Brazil's 2026 World Cup push amid stiff competition in the squad.

"Neymar will miss the second round... expected return next week." – Recent match preview.

TL;DR : Neymar could play February 9 vs. Noroeste if cleared—check Santos' lineup for confirmation, as recovery progresses steadily.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.