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## Neymar's Latest Injury in Al Hilal SFC: Update Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. suffered another devastating setback just months after joining Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain. During the **international friendly match between Brazil and Colombia on October 17th, 2023**, he sustained a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and meniscus damage in his left knee – his **third ACL injury in four years**. This brutal blow occurred barely ten games into his Al Hilal career. The incident happened as Neymar landed awkwardly after leaping for a header late in the second half. Medical scans confirmed the extent of the damage, immediately ending his participation for club and country. ### Surgery & Timeline Neymar underwent successful surgery in Doha on **November 7th, 2023**. While recovery times vary, typical ACL reconstruction combined with meniscus repair sidelines players for **6 to 9 months**. Realistically,Saudi Pro League Highlights Al Hilal won’t see him again until **late spring or early summer 2024 at the earliest**. His absence covers crucial parts of their SPL season and potentially impacts their AFC Champions League campaign. ### Impact on Al Hilal Losing a player of Neymar's magnitude is seismic for any team. His wage bill reportedly dwarfs everyone else combined, but his on-field influence remains unproven due to constant injuries. Manager Jorge Jesus faces rebuilding attacking dynamics without their record signing. Young talents like Malcom and Michael Delgado must step up significantly during this long layoff. ### Fan Reaction & Uncertainty Saudi fans who splashed out millions to watch global stars are frustrated again. Critics question the logic behind investing such vast sums in ageing, injury-prone superstars rather than building sustainably. For Neymar himself, now entering his mid-thirties, questions loom about whether he can ever regain peak form or if this marks the beginning of prolonged decline. One thing seems certain: when he finally returns, managing his fragile body will be paramount. *(Word Count: 298)* |
