Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. suffered yet another setback on Wednesday, leaving the pitch in tears after picking up a left thigh injury during Santos’ Brasileirao clash against Atletico Mineiro. The forward, making his first league start of the season, lasted only 34 minutes before being substituted in visible distress.
The 33-year-old began showing signs of discomfort after Santos’ opening goal in the 24th minute, but initially tried to continue. However, he was ultimately replaced by Argentine midfielder Benjamín Rollheiser, exiting the field as fans applauded him with sympathy and concern. Neymar’s emotional departure marked yet another frustrating chapter in his injury-ridden return to Brazilian football.
This latest setback follows a similar injury from March 2, when Neymar was forced off in the quarterfinals of the Campeonato Paulista against Bragantino. That injury prevented him from playing in the semifinals, as well as missing crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina with the Brazil national team.
Spoiling the special moment
Despite his short time on the pitch against Atletico Mineiro, Neymar showcased flashes of brilliance. The former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Al-Hilal star was also celebrating a milestone, his 100th match for Santos at Vila Belmiro, wearing the number 100 on his jersey to commemorate the occasion. However, the moment was overshadowed by his untimely injury.
Adding to Santos’ woes, the club remains without a permanent head coach. Pedro Caixinha was dismissed earlier this week following a string of poor results, leaving the team scrambling for a replacement. Jorge Sampaoli declined an offer to return to the club, and Eduardo Domínguez, currently managing Estudiantes de La Plata, has emerged as a possible candidate.
As Santos reels from Neymar’s latest injury and ongoing managerial uncertainty, fans and club officials await further medical evaluations to determine the severity of his condition. His return to Brazilian football was meant to be a triumphant homecoming, but for now, setbacks continue to define his journey.
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