Neymar, currently playing for Al Hilal, is facing an extended recovery period after suffering a serious left knee injury in October 2023.
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Neymar’s injury setback has dealt a significant blow to both Al Hilal and his personal ambitions, as the Brazilian star is now facing an extended period of recovery.
The 32-year-old forward, who joined Al Hilal in a high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain, suffered a serious left knee injury on October 17, 2023, during a World Cup qualifying match with Brazil. Despite undergoing surgery and starting his rehabilitation, reports from the Saudi press suggest that Neymar’s recovery has not gone as smoothly as hoped. After failing a recent round of medical tests, it has been confirmed that his return to the pitch will be delayed until 2025.
The initial hope was that Neymar would recover in time to make a comeback early in 2024. However, the latest medical examinations conducted by Al Hilal have revealed that the player’s knee is not yet strong enough to handle the rigors of competitive football. The club’s medical staff has recommended that Neymar continue with his rehabilitation for at least two more months. While he is now targeting a potential return to action in January 2025, this timeline remains contingent on his recovery progressing without further complications.
For Neymar, this extended layoff marks yet another chapter in a career punctuated by injuries. Despite his undeniable talent, the Brazilian forward has often struggled with fitness issues, particularly in recent years. This latest setback comes at a time when Neymar was looking to reignite his career in the Saudi Pro League and make a significant impact at Al Hilal, one of Asia’s most prestigious clubs.
Al Hilal, under the management of Jorge Jesus, has had to adjust to life without their marquee signing. Neymar’s absence leaves a void in the team’s attacking setup, and the club has already begun making tactical adjustments to cope with the loss of their star player. In response to the situation, Jesus has called up Renan Lodi, a versatile left-back, to fill the gap left by Neymar. Lodi, who has experience playing at the top level with clubs like Atlético Madrid, brings defensive solidity and attacking potential to Al Hilal’s squad. Although not a like-for-like replacement for Neymar, Lodi’s inclusion will add depth to the squad as they continue their domestic and continental campaigns.
Al Hilal’s ambitions remain high, both in the Saudi Pro League and in the AFC Champions League, where they are regarded as one of the favorites to compete for the title. Neymar was expected to play a pivotal role in leading the team to success on both fronts. His absence will put additional pressure on other key players like Aleksandar Mitrović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Malcolm to step up in his place.
For Neymar, the extended recovery also complicates his international career. With the Copa America set to take place in the summer of 2024, his chances of representing Brazil in the tournament are now in serious doubt. The Brazilian national team, led by new coach Fernando Diniz, will be closely monitoring his recovery, but with the player’s fitness uncertain, it remains unclear if he will be ready in time to participate in one of South America’s most prestigious tournaments. Missing out on the Copa America would be a significant disappointment for Neymar, who has long expressed his desire to add more international silverware to his collection.
Additionally, Neymar’s delayed return has raised questions about his long-term future at Al Hilal. While the club remains committed to supporting his recovery, there is growing speculation about how this extended absence could impact his role in the team moving forward. Al Hilal has invested heavily in Neymar, and his presence was expected to boost the club’s profile both domestically and internationally. The delay in his return means that the club will need to reassess their strategies in the short term, while also considering Neymar’s fitness for future campaigns.
As 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Neymar’s recovery process. For now, he will continue working with Al Hilal’s medical and rehabilitation team in hopes of making a full recovery. His return to competitive action will be eagerly anticipated, but the road ahead remains uncertain. Both Al Hilal and the Brazilian national team will be hoping that Neymar can come back stronger and resume the brilliant career that has made him one of the most iconic footballers of his generation.
In the meantime, Al Hilal will focus on their upcoming fixtures without their star man, relying on a squad of seasoned professionals to carry the torch in both the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League. The team’s ability to adapt and succeed in Neymar’s absence will be crucial in determining the success of their season, as they aim to maintain their position as one of the top clubs in Asia.
Updated: 10:36, 8 Sep 2024
