Neymar Downplays Injury Concern in Second Appearance

Neymar has sought to alleviate worries after sustaining a new injury during his second game for Al-Hilal, following a year-long absence. The Brazil international had previously faced extended periods on the sidelines due to injuries during his final two seasons with Paris St-Germain. The 32-year-old Brazilian forward was removed from play after 86 minutes during the Saudi Arabian team’s 3-0 victory over Iranian club Esteghlal in the Asian Champions League Elite on Monday. On Instagram, the Brazilian stated, “It felt like a cramp, only very strong. I’m going to have some tests and I hope it’s nothing too serious.” He added, “It’s normal for this to happen after a year. The doctors had already warned me, so I have to be careful and play more minutes.” Neymar experienced an extended period away from competition after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in October 2023, an injury sustained during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier match against Uruguay. Since his transfer from Paris St-Germain in August 2023, he has participated in merely seven matches for Al-Hilal.