Santos manager Cuca has disclosed that Neymar underwent a knee procedure during the international break to ensure he is “ready to perform” ahead of the World Cup in June.
The 34-year-old Neymar was omitted from Brazil’s roster for last month’s World Cup warm-up matches against France and Croatia.
The Brazilian attacker missed Sunday’s 3-1 loss to Flamengo after previously featuring for Santos in a 2-0 victory over Remo on April 2.
“During the break we had, he underwent a procedure on his knee, so he didn’t train,” Cuca commented regarding Neymar.
“He spent four or five days recuperating from that. He focused on some of the fitness goals he needed to achieve.
“This week he’s been concentrating on strength, speed, and endurance. He’ll be ready for the 13 consecutive matches left until the [next international] break. So we’ve utilized this time, collaborating with the coaching staff and the medical team, to enhance his energy levels and maintain momentum until mid-year.”
While Cuca did not specify the nature of the procedure Neymar received, reports indicated that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player underwent platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment, which utilizes the player’s own blood to promote tissue regeneration and assist in the recovery of micro-injuries.
Neymar has faced fitness challenges since he tore the ACL and meniscus in his left knee in October 2023 while representing Brazil.
He had a minor surgical procedure on his left knee on December 22.
Although he has returned to the field and played for Santos in recent months, his performances have not yet convinced national team coach Carlo Ancelotti that he deserves a spot in the squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Neymar is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals and has participated in three World Cups.
