The excitement surrounding Neymar’s return to Brazil’s top flight was immense, and the forward initially lived up to the hype with strong performances in his first appearances for Santos. However, in recent weeks, physical issues have once again become a major concern, and on Wednesday night, he was forced off the pitch early once more.
The 2025 Brazilian league is currently in its fourth matchday, and Ney had missed the first two games. He hadn’t played since March 2, when a muscle injury sidelined him for the Campeonato Paulista semifinals against Cortinthians, a match Santos lost 2-1. That same injury also prevented him from returning to the Brazil national team for the South American World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
This past Sunday, Ney played limited minutes against Fluminense, and anticipation was high once again on Wednesday as coach Cesar Sampaio named him in the starting lineup to face Atletico Mineiro in Matchday 4 of the Brazilian league.
Things had started well for Santos, with Ze Ivaldo scoring the opener in the 24th minute and Alvaro Barreal doubling the lead moments later. But the good news was quickly overshadowed. In the 34th minute, Neymar had to be replaced by Benjamin Rollheiser due to muscle discomfort. The 33-year-old superstar left the field in tears, clearly frustrated by yet another injury setback.
Neymar leaves the field with tears in his eyes during the first half of the match between Santos and Atletico Mineiro.
What happened to Neymar?
Images from the official broadcast showed Neymar Jr. on the field holding the back of his left leg with visible signs of pain and concern, while covering his face in frustration.
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After the substitution that brought Rollheiser on for Neymar, Santos’ official X account posted: “The number 10 came off with pain in his left thigh and was cheered on by the fans at Vila Belmiro. Strength to our Prince!”
Neymar’s performances this season with Santos
Neymar’s physical issues have taken a toll on his impact for Santos. In the Campeonato Paulista, the forward made his debut on February 5 and went on to play seven straight matches, steadily increasing his minutes. During that stretch, he scored three goals and provided two assists, helping his team reach the semifinals.
However, just before the matchup against Corinthians, Ney suffered a posterior muscle injury in his left thigh that kept him off the pitch. It was a major blow for Santos, who lost 2-1 and were eliminated from the tournament.
More than a month passed before the 33-year-old superstar was fit to return. After missing the first two matches of the Brazilian league, Ney played 45 minutes in last Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Fluminense. Then, on Wednesday, he lasted just 34 minutes before being forced off again with pain in the same area where he suffered his previous injury.
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