Santos FC confirmed that their star player, Neymar Jr., tested positive for COVID-19 after exhibiting symptoms during a training session on Thursday, June 5, 2025. The 33-year-old Brazilian footballer, who returned to his boyhood club in 2024 after stints with Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal, was immediately withdrawn from team activities to prevent further spread. Neymar is now isolating at his home in São Paulo, Brazil, under medical supervision, adhering to health protocols established by Brazilian authorities and the World Health Organization.
Neymar’s symptoms, described as mild and including fever, fatigue and a sore throat, prompted immediate testing, which returned a positive result. Santos FC’s medical team, in coordination with local health officials, has placed Neymar on a regimen of symptomatic treatment, including rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage discomfort. A follow-up test is scheduled for Monday, June 9, 2025, to determine whether Neymar can return to training or must extend his isolation period, depending on his viral load and symptom progression.
This marks Neymar’s second confirmed COVID-19 infection, the first occurring in May 2021 while he was playing for Paris Saint-Germain. During his previous infection, Neymar experienced a mild case and recovered fully within two weeks, returning to play without complications. Medical experts note that prior infections and vaccinations may reduce the severity of symptoms, though Neymar’s current health status, including any potential impact from his history of injuries, is being closely monitored to ensure a full recovery.
As a result of his diagnosis, Neymar will miss Santos’ upcoming Brazilian Série A match against Fortaleza on June 8, 2025 and potentially additional games, depending on his recovery timeline. Santos FC has stated that Neymar’s health is their top priority and the club is following all necessary protocols to support his recovery while protecting the team and staff. The absence of Neymar, a key player and global icon, is a significant blow to Santos, who are currently mid-table in the league and relying on his experience to boost their campaign.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions to Neymar’s diagnosis, with fans and commentators expressing concern and wishing him a speedy recovery. However, one X post claimed Neymar was in critical condition and intubated at Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo, a report that lacks substantiation from credible sources such as Globo, ESPN Brasil, or Santos FC’s official statements. These outlets consistently report that Neymar is stable, managing his symptoms at home, and under routine medical care, highlighting the importance of relying on verified information during health-related news cycles.
Brazil’s ongoing management of COVID-19, now considered endemic in the region, includes robust testing and isolation protocols for high-profile individuals like Neymar, whose cases often draw significant public attention. The country has reported a steady but manageable number of cases in 2025, with vaccination rates above 80% for adults, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Neymar, who has publicly supported vaccination efforts in the past, is expected to recover fully, though his return to the pitch will depend on medical clearance and his physical condition post-isolation.
The football community has rallied around Neymar, with messages of support from teammates, former clubs and rivals alike. Santos FC has not yet named a replacement for Neymar in their lineup, with coach Fábio Carille likely to adjust tactics to compensate for the absence of their star forward. Fans are hopeful that Neymar’s recovery will be swift, allowing him to continue his impressive form, which has seen him score 12 goals and provide 8 assists in 22 appearances for Santos this season.
Health experts have reiterated the importance of continued vigilance against COVID-19, even as its global impact has lessened. For athletes like Neymar, who rely on peak physical condition, even mild cases can pose challenges due to the demands of professional sports. Santos FC and Neymar’s medical team are taking a cautious approach, ensuring that his return to play does not compromise his long-term health or the safety of those around him.
In the broader context, Neymar’s diagnosis underscores the ongoing relevance of public health measures in professional sports. Leagues worldwide, including the Brazilian Série A, have maintained protocols such as regular testing and isolation for positive cases, adapted from the height of the pandemic. These measures have allowed football to continue with minimal disruptions, though high-profile cases like Neymar’s serve as reminders of the virus’s persistence.
Looking ahead, Neymar’s recovery timeline will be closely watched by fans and analysts, given his critical role in Santos’ ambitions for the 2025 season and his aspirations to lead Brazil in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His medical team has emphasized that a full recovery is expected, provided he adheres to the prescribed treatment and rest period. Updates on his condition are anticipated following his retest on June 9, 2025, which will determine his next steps in returning to competitive play.
