Brazil’s star forward Neymar suffered a serious knee injury that will result in a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The 31-year-old player got hurt during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay on Tuesday.
Neymar’s club, Al Hilal, confirmed the news on Wednesday, announcing that the Brazilian is dealing with a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee.
The Saudi Pro League side didn’t share any estimates about how long it will take for Neymar to return to action. But, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) reportedly believes he will recover in time for next year’s Copa America, which is scheduled to take place between June 20 and July 14.
The injuries have been the story of Neymar’s career in recent years. This includes an ankle injury he sustained in March that required him to have surgery and miss the remainder of the 2022-23 campaign.
After a decade in Europe, during which he played with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar decided to take his talents to Saudi Arabia this past summer. He signed a two-year contract with Al Hilal that will reportedly earn him $300 million.
Neymar played five games with his new club, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
