Brazilian club Santos is making an intensive effort to help Neymar Junior regain full fitness in time for the upcoming World Cup, which begins on June 11. Reports suggest Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has nearly finalized his squad, possibly without Neymar, but the player and his club remain determined. Ancelotti is expected to announce the official squad on May 18, with the final deadline set for May 30. Brazil’s training camp starts on May 25, leaving Neymar roughly 40 to 52 days to prove his readiness.

Santos plans to play Neymar in at least 13 of their next 14 matches across the Brazilian Championship, Copa do Brasil, and Copa Sudamericana to help him regain match fitness. However, he will be rested for the Sudamericana opener against Deportivo Cuenca in Ecuador. Neymar recently underwent knee surgery and has been under medical supervision, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to accelerate recovery. Despite missing several training sessions, he continues double daily workouts to rebuild strength and conditioning.

Santos coach Cuca said the club’s priority is to have Neymar fully fit for the remaining matches, aiming to boost his chances of World Cup selection.