Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement released by his club, Santos FC.
Neymar has been out of Santos’ training since Thursday after showing symptoms of the coronavirus, with a new test scheduled for Monday.
This is the second time the forward has contracted the virus. He had previously tested positive in May 2021, during his time at Paris Saint-Germain.
With a viral condition that began on Thursday (June 5), Neymar Jr. underwent laboratory tests, after evaluation by the Medical Department of Santos FC, which confirmed infection by Covid-19,” the club said in a statement.
“The player had already been away from activities since Thursday, when he began showing symptoms, and remains resting at home and undergoing symptomatic treatment, as determined by a doctor.”
Neymar, 33, has seen a dip in his form since his exit from the French club in 2023 and is currently playing for his boyhood club, Santos. He is reportedly in a stable condition and is being monitored closely at home.
With 79 international goals, he is Brazil’s record goalscorer. However, injuries have shortened his career substantially. His last international appearance was in October 2023 in a 0-2 loss against Uruguay, where he was stretchered off with an injury.
He missed the Copa America 2024 and was excluded from Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the ongoing World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.
For Brazil, Neymar has been a hero. He won the Olympic gold medal in 2016 in Rio and the Confederations Cup in 2013. In 2023, he became Brazil’s top goal scorer, passing the great Pelé. He has played in three World Cups and many Copa América tournaments.
Neymar is known for his fast feet, amazing dribbling, and beautiful goals. He plays with joy and creativity. Even with injuries and ups and downs, he has had a great career and is one of the best players of his generation.
by allan muriithi
