Sources inform ESPN that Neymar is willing to play through injury to support Santos in their battle against relegation.
The Brazilian forward missed Monday’s 1-1 league draw against Internacional as a precaution after feeling discomfort in his left knee during the match against Mirassol on November 19.
As reported by ESPN Brasil, the 33-year-old is likely to need arthroscopic surgery at the end of the season to address a meniscus injury in his left knee.
Despite medical recommendations, Neymar trained with his team on Wednesday and may be part of the squad for Friday’s league game against Sport.
According to ESPN Brasil, Neymar is eager to play, but Santos’ medical staff has advised caution, recommending he continue conservative treatment to be available for Santos’ final two league matches against Juventude and Cruzeiro.
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira remains hopeful that Neymar will take part in Friday’s game but emphasizes that no decision will be made that could jeopardize the player’s health.
“It’s about expectation and hope,” said Teixeira. “I’m not a doctor, nor do I involve myself in those decisions—they should be left to the health professionals. He trained well without feeling any pain, and we’ll assess him again. It’s up to the club’s medical team to make the call.”
“There’s a chance he’ll play—that’s the expectation, without any risks or actions that could harm him or Santos. We need our players ready for a critical match.”
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Santos currently occupies a relegation zone, just one point away from safety.
Neymar previously underwent surgery on his left knee two years ago to repair an ACL tear and a torn meniscus.
Since rejoining his boyhood club in January, the Brazilian international has struggled with fitness issues as he aims to participate in his fourth World Cup next year.
Information from ESPN’s Adriana Garcia contributed to this report.