Neymar left the pitch in tears after sustaining a fresh leg injury during Santos’ 2-0 win over Atletico-MG in the Brazilian Serie A on Wednesday. The 33-year-old was starting for the first time this season, having returned from a previous six-week layoff.
Neymar’s return to Santos took another hit as the forward was forced off in the 34th minute, visibly emotional and clutching his left thigh. The injury occurred shortly after Alvaro Barreal scored Santos’ second goal, and Neymar signalled to the bench before sitting down to receive medical attention.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star had been wearing a commemorative number 100 shirt to mark his 100th appearance at the Vila Belmiro stadium. After assessment by medical staff, Neymar was removed from the pitch on a buggy, visibly distressed.
Santos coach Cesar Sampaio said the extent of the injury is not yet known.
“It’s still too early to give any definitive answer, we don’t have a diagnosis yet,” said Sampaio. “Now we really have to pray that it’s not something that will keep him out for a long time.”
Neymar received support from teammates and Atletico-MG forward Hulk, who consoled the visibly upset forward. Since rejoining Santos from Al-Hilal, Neymar has made eight appearances and scored three goals.
The Brazil international has not featured for the national side since October 2023, when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament. He was set to return for World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Colombia but was forced to withdraw due to injury.
