Neymar’s Return to Brazilian Championship Cut Short by Injury
Neymar’s eagerly awaited first start back in the Brazilian Championship ended prematurely on Wednesday as the star forward left Santos’ 2-0 victory over Atlético-MG after just 34 minutes due to a left thigh injury.
Wearing a commemorative No. 100 jersey for his milestone 100th appearance at Vila Belmiro, Neymar entered the match with both legs visibly strapped. Signs of discomfort soon emerged in his left thigh, the same area previously injured during a Campeonato Paulista game that kept him sidelined for six weeks.
The 33-year-old had only recently returned from that injury, making a substitute appearance against Fluminense on Sunday.
After Santos doubled their lead with a second goal, Neymar signaled to the bench and requested a substitution. Moments later, he went to the ground and had to be assisted off the field, leaving fans concerned about his recovery and future availability.
