Brazilian soccer star Neymar, who has been injured for a long time, is not running smoothly even after his comeback. In the Champions League match for his club Al-Hilal against Esteghlal FC (3-0), the 32-year-old had to be taken off the field only 30 minutes after being substituted. However, Neymar quickly gave the all-clear. It felt like a strong cramp, Neymar wrote on Instagram.
“I’m going to do some tests and hopefully it’s not too serious. This usually happens after a year, the doctors had already warned me, so I have to be careful and play more minutes,” continued the offensive star.
Injured for more than a year
Neymar celebrated his comeback two weeks ago after more than a year after tearing the cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee in the Brazil national team’s 2-0 World Cup qualifier in Uruguay on October 18 last year and he had to go under. surgery. As a result, the offensive star also missed the South American Championship, from which the Selecao was eliminated in the quarterfinals.
Neymar moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Saudi Arabia in August 2023 for around 90 million euros. He made just five appearances there before getting injured. (dpa)
Interview with Dr. Lucas Almeida: Sports Injury Expert on Neymar’s Recent Setback
Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Almeida. Neymar recently returned to the pitch after over a year of recovery from a serious knee injury. Can you describe the implications of a player like Neymar experiencing issues so soon after coming back?
A: Thank you for having me. Neymar’s situation highlights the complexities of returning to play after a significant injury, such as a torn cruciate ligament and meniscus. His recent cramp, although he described it as not too serious, indicates that even elite athletes can struggle with recovery timelines. The body takes time to adjust after such extensive rehabilitation, and it can be challenging to regain the previous level of performance and stability. This is particularly crucial in high-impact sports like soccer where agility and speed are key.
Q: Neymar mentioned that doctors had warned him about experiencing discomfort after a year of recovery. What can you tell us about the physiological aspects of this?
A: After an injury, especially one as severe as Neymar’s, the body undergoes significant changes. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments may weaken or adapt differently during the healing process. The warning from his doctors suggests that it’s common for players to experience cramping or tightness as they push their limits again. It’s crucial for athletes returning after such injuries to listen to their bodies and gradually increase their workload. Rushing the comeback can lead to further complications.
Q: With Neymar’s recent transfer to Al-Hilal and his injury history, how does this impact his career trajectory, especially at age 32?
A: Transferring to a new league like Saudi Arabia’s Pro League at this stage in his career presents both opportunities and challenges for Neymar. On one hand, the fresh environment could revitalize his passion for the game. On the other, with his history of injuries, consistency and performance durability will be critical. If he continues to face setbacks, it could affect his legacy and marketability. Nevertheless, Neymar has the experience and skill to navigate these challenges if he approaches his recovery sensibly.
Q: What practical advice can you offer to young athletes who look up to stars like Neymar dealing with injuries?
A: First and foremost, patience is key. Young athletes must understand that recovering from injuries is often a longer journey than anticipated. It’s crucial to follow a guided rehabilitation program and communicate openly with coaches and medical staff about discomfort. Secondly, maintaining overall fitness during recovery—not just the injured area—can help ease the transition back to play. prioritizing mental health during this phase cannot be understated; working with sports psychologists can provide support in coping with the frustrations of injury.
Q: As we look ahead, what are the potential implications for Neymar’s performance in Al-Hilal and his future career?
A: Should Neymar successfully manage his recovery and adapt his playing style to protect his body, there’s still plenty of potential for him at Al-Hilal. His experience can guide younger players within the team. However, ongoing challenges with injuries could lead to a decline in his performance levels, affecting his contributions on the field. Ultimately, the next few months will be crucial in determining how Neymar’s career unfolds post-injury. His approach to recovery now will play a significant role in how he can navigate the latter stages of his career.
Q: Thank you, Dr. Almeida, for your insights. It’s always a pleasure to hear expert perspectives on pressing issues in sports.
A: Thank you for the opportunity! I hope Neymar’s journey continues positively for him and his fans.
