Brazilian football sensation Neymar Jr. has encountered yet another injury setback, just 34 minutes into his much-anticipated return to Santos in the Brasileirão, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Romano reported on Wednesday: “Neymar Jr. has left the pitch with a new injury after being started by Santos tonight in the Brasileirão.
He was substituted after just 34 minutes.” This incident marks the latest chapter in the ongoing injury challenges facing the 33-year-old player in recent years.
Earlier in January 2025, Neymar ended his brief and injury-riddled tenure at Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, which confirmed the mutual termination of his contract originally signed in August 2023.
The club expressed its gratitude to Neymar for his contributions, stating, “The club thanks and appreciates Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al-Hilal, and wishes the player success in his future endeavors.”
Neymar’s high-profile move to Al-Hilal, reportedly worth $104 million per annum, saw him make just seven appearances before injuries took their toll.
He suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament during a World Cup qualifier for Brazil in October 2023—merely two months into his Saudi stint—and later encountered a hamstring issue upon his return in late 2024.
Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus commented at that time, “He can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately.”
Despite these setbacks, Neymar has expressed a strong desire to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He told CNN in January, “I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance, and I will do everything I can to play in it.”
Following his exit from Al-Hilal, speculation arose about a potential return to Santos, the club where Neymar first garnered global attention. Negotiations ensued, and his recent appearance in the Brasileirão marked his significant return to Brazilian football.
As Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 127 matches, Neymar’s illustrious career has been marred by persistent injuries.
Once regarded as Pelé’s heir, he was a key player in Barcelona’s famed trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
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Brazilian football sensation Neymar also holds the record for the most expensive transfer in football history, with his €220 million move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. While he won five Ligue 1 titles with PSG and was instrumental in the club’s journey to the UEFA Champions League final in 2020, internal conflicts and injuries ultimately led to his departure to Saudi Arabia.
