Brazilian football fans were disappointed earlier this month when Neymar was forced to withdraw from Brazil’s national team group because of injury. The absence of The speech of the selection Where Clearly known When Brazil suffered a humbly 4-1 defeat to Argentina in 2026 Conmebol World Cup Qualifiers.
The world champion ran riot, with Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allists and Giuliano Simeone All find the net, exposure Brazil’s lack of firepower and leadership on the pitch. Without Neymar’s presence, Struggles to create chances on chancesleaving the head coach Dorival junior With more questions than answers as he continues to rebuild the squad.
While the 33-year-old’s absence from the national team was already a major conversation, Brazilian fans also eagerly predicted his return at club level. With Returned Santos from Al-Hilal in JanuaryThe 33-year-old was expected to lead the club in their Highly expected return to the Brazilian championship Series A. But doubts hanged over their accessibility for their first match back in Brasil’s top flight.
Will Neymar meet Vasco da Gama?
Despite the excitement around his official league return, Neymar will not present in Santos opening game against Vasco da Gama This weekend.

According to TNT Sports BrazilThe the Veteran forward has failed to recover in time from a thigh injurywhich means his Competitive debut for Peixe will have to wait. The news comes as a significant blow to Santos fans, who had hoped to see his hometown hero lead the club on its Return to the elite level in Brazilian football.
Santos’ Head coach and medical personnel had remained hopeful that Neymar could recover in time, but he is Not yet match-pass form To participate in the collision against Vasco da Gama. This latest setback continues a frustrating period for the player, who has not played for Brazil since September 2024 And have struggled with injuries in recent seasons.
Santos and Neymar: delayed first division reunion
Neymar’s return to Santos – the club where he rose to superstarom – was seen as a new start After a demanding form of magic Al-hilal. After spending years in Europe’s top with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germainhis decision to return home met with excitement from Santos supporters and Brazilian football fans equal.
InvestigationHow many goals will Neymar score this season in Serie A for Santos?
How many goals will Neymar score this season in Serie A for Santos?
But his long -awaited comeback has been turn onwith Santo’s next league match against Bahia on April 4, which is now highlighted as the potential date of his return. The club hopes Neymar will be fully at then, which makes him can Make their first performance in Santos colors in over a decade.