By Chalien Dantes 

Neymar is set to undergo knee surgery after playing through pain to help his boyhood club Santos avoid relegation from Brazil’s Serie A.

The 33- year -old completed the full 90 minutes as Santos secured a 3-0 victory over Cruzeiro on Sunday, ensuring they stay in the top flight after last season’s promotion.

He offered little detail on his recovery plans, saying he needs rest before the procedure.

Neymar returned to Brazil in January following a frustrating stint at Saudi club Al Hilal, where he made only seven appearances in 18 months.

Since his return, he has been pivotal in Santos’ fight for survival, scoring five goals in the final four matches of the season.

Injuries have also kept Brazil’s all-time top scorer sidelined from the national team since their October 2023 loss to Uruguay.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has said Neymar must regain full fitness and form to be considered for next summer’s World Cup across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.