Neymar`s Injury Concerns and Brazil`s World Cup Struggles

Neymar, the Brazilian forward, has been dealing with a muscle issue in his left thigh, which forced him to be substituted during Al Hilal's AFC Champions League match against Iran's Esteghlal. This injury is a setback for Neymar, who had recently returned to the pitch after a year-long absence due to an ACL and meniscus injury on his left leg. Despite his efforts to reassure fans that the injury is not serious, Neymar will likely be out for at least two weeks, as stated by Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus[2].

Meanwhile, Brazil's national team continues to struggle in the CONMEBOL 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying standings. After a disappointing draw against Venezuela and a 1–1 draw with Uruguay, Brazil has only managed two points out of six possible in the November international break. This has knocked the Seleção into fifth place in the standings. Despite having top wingers like Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, Brazil has only managed two goals in its last two matches, with only one coming from open play. The absence of Neymar, who has 79 international goals in 128 appearances, has been particularly felt[1].

Dorival Júnior, the coach of the Brazil national team, has expressed his admiration for Neymar and hopes for his return to the team when he is fully fit. Neymar has the next four months to prepare for a potential return to Brazil, which will be crucial as the team faces its toughest CONMEBOL opponents, Colombia and Argentina, in March 2025[1].