The homecoming of Brazilian superstar Neymar has taken a devastating turn for the worse, with the forward now officially ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a significant knee injury.
Injury Diagnosis and Timeline
The 33-year-old's troubles began during the 1-1 draw with Mirassol on November 19, where he first experienced discomfort in his left knee. Despite the issue arising in the first half, Neymar played the full duration of the match. The problem escalated, forcing him to miss Monday's subsequent 1-1 draw at Internacional.
Initial hopes that he would only be sidelined for a single game were dashed on Tuesday. After undergoing medical tests in Sao Paulo, it was confirmed that Neymar has suffered a meniscus injury in his left knee. This diagnosis means he will not play again for his boyhood club, Santos, for the rest of the year, missing the final crucial matches of their Serie A campaign.
Manager's Hopes Dashed by Harsh Reality
Santos manager, Vojvoda, had previously expressed optimism about Neymar's swift return. Speaking after the Internacional match, he told reporters, 'The plan is for him to be in the match against Sport... He's our leader on the field. He'll be there.'
Vojvoda acknowledged that Neymar had felt discomfort before and during the Mirassol game, with the pain becoming more significant the following day. He had emphasised the player's commitment and the team's need for his leadership across the final three rounds. Sadly, this prognosis has proven incorrect, dealing a severe blow to the team's survival plans.
Relegation Battle Intensifies Without Star Player
Neymar's absence could not have come at a worse time for Santos. The club is embroiled in a fierce Serie A relegation battle and is currently in a perilous position. They sit 17th in the table, which is inside the relegation zone, and are just one point away from safety, a place currently occupied by Vitoria.
Losing their marquee signing and on-field leader for the final fixtures, including the upcoming home clash with Sport, represents a monumental challenge for Santos as they fight to preserve their top-flight status.
