Uruguay
Brazilian and Al-Hilal forward, Neymar, faced a heartbreaking blow during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Uruguay, where he sustained a severe injury, rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee. The 31-year-old, known for his agile footwork and scoring prowess, was carried off the field in tears during the 2-0 defeat on Tuesday, marking a significant setback for both the player and his teams.
In an emotional Instagram post following the injury, Neymar expressed the difficulty of facing yet another challenging recovery process. Al Hilal confirmed the injury, stating that Neymar would undergo surgery for the ACL and cartilage cut, with the duration of his absence yet to be determined.
This unfortunate incident comes after a series of injury setbacks in Neymar’s recent career, including his absence from crucial World Cup matches in Qatar last year due to an injury sustained during Brazil’s initial game against Serbia. His transfer from Paris St-Germain to Al-Hilal was intended to mark a new chapter in his career, but persistent injury struggles have persisted. Recognizing the impact of Neymar’s absence on both Brazilian and global football, Brazilian Football Confederation president Ednaldo Rodrigues extended his wishes for Neymar’s speedy recovery. However, Neymar’s recent history with prolonged spells on the sidelines, primarily due to recurring ankle injuries during his tenure at PSG, highlights the challenges he has faced in maintaining his athletic prime. As Neymar prepares for surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process, the football world waits in anticipation for his eventual return to the pitch, hoping to witness the rekindling of his magic and flair that have long captivated fans worldwide.
