Brazilian football star Neymar is set to miss at least two weeks of training after suffering a muscle injury in his second match back from a long-term knee injury.
The 32-year-old forward, who recently joined Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, sustained a right hamstring strain during Monday's 3-0 AFC Champions League Elite victory over Esteghlal.
Neymar, who had been sidelined for over a year following right knee surgery, lasted just 26 minutes as a substitute in the match before limping off the field. His coach at Al Hilal, Jorge Jesus, confirmed the injury, stating that while Neymar's knee has healed, muscle problems are to be expected due to his extended time away from competitive action.
"It's not an easy case," Jesus explained. "Neymar's knee is fine, but muscle injuries are common after such a long break."
Neymar himself addressed the injury on social media, describing the sensation as "very strong" and noting that it felt similar to a cramp.
He also reassured fans that he would undergo medical tests to determine the severity of the issue, emphasizing that such setbacks were anticipated after his long recovery.
Despite the injury, Neymar is not listed for the current Saudi Pro League season but is expected to continue playing in the AFC Champions League, Asia’s premier club competition. His lucrative contract with Al Hilal, reportedly worth around €100 million annually, sees him featured prominently in international club tournaments.
Al Hilal, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, will now have to manage without their star player for at least the next two weeks as Neymar focuses on his rehabilitation.
