Neymar Jr.’s highly anticipated return to the pitch lasted mere minutes, leaving his future at Al Hilal uncertain.
The Brazilian superstar suffered a suspected muscle injury during Al Hilal’s match against Esteghlal, casting doubts on his continued presence in the Saudi Pro League.
Neymar Injury Woes Continue
The 31-year-old forward has struggled with injuries since joining Al Hilal in August 2023.
In October 2023, while representing Brazil national team in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, Neymar Jr. suffered one of the most dreaded injuries for a football player.
He had a serious knee injury, including a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus damage, that sidelined him for an extended period.
After undergoing surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation, Neymar returned to action coming on as a substitute in the 58th minute of Al Hilal’s 3-0 win over Esteghlal.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal confirmed on Wednesday, November 6 that Neymar is expected to undergo treatment and rehabilitation for a hamstring injury, with the process expected to last four to six weeks.
Neymar, who made his second club appearance after a long injury layoff, suffered the injury during Al Hilal’s 3-0 win over Esteghlal in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday, November 4.
The former Barcelona player had to be replaced after pulling up while stretching for the ball in the closing minutes of the match.
Al Hilal boss Jorge Jesus provides update on Neymar’s injury
Speaking at a news conference in Riyadh, Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus provided an update on Neymar’s condition, explaining that the injury is not related to his knee and appears to be muscle pain.
Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus said in a news conference in Riyadh: “Unfortunately, it is not a simple injury and he seems to be suffering from muscle pain and it is not a knee issue,”
However, his latest setback has raised concerns about his durability and ability to perform at the highest level.
Al Hilal weighs options over Neymar’s injury
As Neymar’s injury woes persist, Al Hilal are reportedly considering their options.
According to sources, the club plan to reassess Neymar’s situation in January, potentially leading to contract termination discussions.
If finalized, this decision would allow Neymar to negotiate with other clubs, paving the way for a possible return to Santos in Brazil, his boyhood club and where he began his professional career.
Neymar’s time at Al Hilal
Neymar’s arrival at Al Hilal was met with fanfare, marking one of the most high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League.
However, his injury-plagued tenure has raised questions about the wisdom of investing heavily in a player with a history of fitness issues.
Neymar has played just seven games for the 19-time Saudi champion since joining from PSG in August 2023 for a reported fee of $90 million.
Implications for Neymar’s Career
The latest injury setback has significant implications for Neymar’s career trajectory.
At 31, the Brazilian is approaching the twilight of his playing days, and recurring injuries may diminish his market value.
A potential return to Santos could provide a nostalgic conclusion to his career, but it remains uncertain whether the Brazilian club can accommodate his salary demands.
Additionally, there has been speculation about a potential reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, but that possibility may not come to fruition due to his recent injury setback.
However, the football world waits with bated breath as Neymar’s future hangs in the balance.
It remains to be seen if Neymar will overcome his injury woes and rediscover his form, or whether his time at Al Hilal will prove to be an ill-fated chapter in his illustrious career.
What’s next for Neymar?
It is anticipated that Al- Hilal will soon release a statement updating the public on the severity of the injury and the forward’s expected recovery time, although no official confirmation has been given yet.
