Neymar claims to have “suffered every day” during his 12-month injury nightmare, with the Brazil international breaking down in tears.
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Damaged knee ligaments in 2023Has taken in long road to recoveryDetermined to entertain fans againFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The 32-year-old playmaker has been reflecting on his latest spell stuck on the sidelines as he prepares to make a long-awaited return to action with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal. Neymar has, after stepping back into full training, been included in their squad for an AFC Champions League trip to Al-Ain.
AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Neymar has not figured for club or country since suffering knee ligament damage while on 2026 World Cup qualifying duty in October 2023. Questions have been asked of his future while on the treatment table, with there suggestions that his time in the Middle East could be cut short, but Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer is ready to silence any doubters.
WHAT NEYMAR SAID
Discussing his epic journey back to full fitness with the YouTube channel, a tearful Neymar said: “I felt a huge pain. In that moment I already knew it was serious. What I want most in life is to play football. I have suffered every day I've been away from the pitch. This is what hurts me the most. I am focused on the most important people in my life, my family and friends, and football. I have risen every time I have been injured. But I don't return halfway.”
GettyWHAT NEXT?
Neymar has been restricted to just five appearances for Al-Hilal since completing a big-money transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. His contract is only due to run until the summer of 2025, but there is an extension option within those terms that could keep him in Riyadh for another year.