Santos issue statement on Neymar fitness ahead of World Cup

Santos issue statement on Neymar fitness ahead of World Cup

Santos have issued an official statement addressing concerns over a medical disagreement regarding Neymar’s calf injury ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The club initially described the issue as a minor oedema, but Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar later confirmed it as a grade two muscle strain.

As a result, the forward will miss Brazil’s warm-up friendlies against Panama and Egypt while racing to recover for the tournament opener.

Amid reports questioning transparency over Neymar’s condition, Santos moved quickly to clarify their communication with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

"Regarding the clinical issue of the athlete Neymar Jr, the Santos Medical Department clarifies that absolutely all exams carried out by Neymar Jr were shared with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) until the 18th, the date of the call-up,” Santos wrote in a statement per ESPN.

“The two-week period is counted from the 17th and ends this Sunday (31st) for the player to be able to return to activities. Always remembering that these estimates vary from person to person and according to the needs of the team and the importance of the games.

"The Brazilian national team's physiotherapy team is also composed of professionals from Santos FC who have followed Neymar Jr. for more than 10 years and throughout this recovery process.

“The club's medical department is aligned and in agreement with the treatment schedule defined by the CBF medical team. Santos FC professionals know the athlete's recovery capacity and are confident that Neymar will be ready to compete in the World Cup."