Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda is optimistic about Neymar’s recovery following his knee surgery in December but will not hasten his return to play.
Neymar, who celebrated his 34th birthday on Thursday, resumed training this week after being out of action since December 22, when he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee to fix a damaged meniscus.
With speculation that Neymar might participate on Sunday against Club Noroeste in the Campeonato Paulista, Vojvoda remarked: “He is already back with the team. However, a player of his caliber, who is aiming for significant objectives, must be in optimal condition to come back.
“He is completely committed so that when he returns to the field, he can deliver the performance everyone anticipates. He aspires to the World Cup. He needs to train and engage in one-on-one drills … He is human. We will not rush him. I am the first who needs him, as do his teammates. But we want him to be in good health.
“When he is fit, he makes a crucial impact like no one else can,” Vojvoda added.
– As Neymar turns 34, time is ticking on his World Cup dream
Neymar, who played a vital role in helping Santos avoid relegation last season, is determined to secure a spot in Brazil’s World Cup roster.
Injuries have kept the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals from representing Brazil since October 2023.
Brazilian forward Gabriel Barbosa, known as ‘Gabigol’, who recently joined Santos on loan from Cruzeiro, aims to alleviate some of the pressure on Neymar.
“I don’t view him as the savior of the nation,” ‘Gabigol’ stated. “If that were the case, other teams would never lose because they have outstanding players.
“He is simply another player, albeit a very significant one, an idol within the group and the captain. He possesses excellent leadership qualities. We hope to support him so he doesn’t feel overwhelmed and can enjoy the game. We hope he returns at 100%, without pressure, in a calm manner, to assist Santos and the national team.”
