Neymar Leaves Pitch in Tears After Fresh Injury Setback for Santos

Santos forward Neymar left the field in tears just 34 minutes into his first Brazilian Serie A start of the season, after suffering a fresh injury during Wednesday’s clash with Atletico-MG.

The 33-year-old, who had only just returned from a six-week layoff due to a thigh injury, started the match wearing a commemorative No. 100 shirt to mark his 100th appearance at Santos’ iconic Vila Belmiro stadium.

However, the celebration quickly turned somber. Moments after Alvaro Barreal gave Santos a 2-0 lead, Neymar signaled to the bench in discomfort, then sat on the pitch awaiting medical attention. He was visibly emotional as he was stretchered off, clutching his left thigh—the same area that sidelined him for weeks.

Teammates and opponents alike, including former Brazil teammate Hulk, offered support as the star was taken off on a medical buggy.

“It’s too early to give a clear diagnosis,” said Santos head coach Cesar Sampaio after the game. “We just have to pray it’s not serious and won’t keep him out for long.”

Neymar has made eight appearances and scored three goals since rejoining Santos earlier this year from Saudi club Al-Hilal.

Injury Woes Continue

This latest setback adds to a long list of injuries for Neymar, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, who hasn’t played for the national team since October 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL.

He had recently been named in Brazil’s squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Colombia, but was forced to withdraw due to ongoing fitness concerns.

Fans and pundits alike are now anxiously awaiting updates on his condition, as the star’s emotional return to Brazilian football faces another painful pause.