Neymar reveals the reason behind his absence from the Club World Cup

Brazilian star Neymar da Silva, currently a Santos player, revealed that he was one step away from participating in the 2025 Club World Cup, but he chose to turn down the opportunity in order to focus on regaining full physical fitness. Neymar joined Santos in the winter of 2025, after a brief spell with Saudi club Al Hilal, where he spent a season and a half without making a significant impact. Four Brazilian clubs are participating in this year's Club World Cup: Palmeiras, Flamengo, Botafogo, and Fluminense, making Brazil the most represented country in the tournament. In statements reported by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on his account on the "x" platform, Neymar said: "I was very close to moving to Fluminense to participate in the Club World Cup. It was a real opportunity."
He added: "But I decided to stay with Santos because my goal is to regain 100% fitness. I want to return to my true level as soon as possible." Fluminense opened their campaign with a goalless draw against Borussia Dortmund in Group E. Since returning to Santos, Neymar has made 14 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing three assists, and receiving one red card.