Rabat – Santos FC has officially updated fans on Neymar da Silva’s health after the star missed recent team training sessions due to a viral infection.
The club’s medical staff confirmed the diagnosis following his absence at the CT Rei Pelé base, noting that they are closely monitoring his recovery as he aims to return to the pitch quickly.
“The athlete Neymar Jr. presented a viral condition on Saturday night, was medicated, reacted well and continues to be monitored by the Santos medical department,” the club stated, according to Goal.
The 34-year-old was set to train with teammates who stayed behind during Saturday’s match against Bahia, but he remained out of action as the club gears up for their Copa Sudamericana campaign.
The infection comes at a difficult time for both the player and Santos, as the club prepares for Tuesday’s vital Copa Sudamericana match against San Lorenzo. Neymar’s presence on the flight to Buenos Aires is currently uncertain as he works to recover from the infection.
The 34-year-old was slated to train with key teammates like Gabigol, Willian Arão, and Igor Vinícius. Although these players missed the recent game against Bahia, they are expected to be available for manager Cuca’s squad in Argentina.
Neymar returned to Santos in early 2025 following the termination of his contract with Al-Hilal. The move, which currently runs through December 2026, was finalized to allow the forward to compete in the Brazilian top flight and the Copa Sudamericana.
In his current 2026 campaign, the Brazilian player has recorded four goals and three assists across 10 appearances.
The medical staff at the club is keeping a close eye on his progress without providing a set timeline for his return, as the forward focuses on a swift comeback to keep his World Cup ambitions alive.