The 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season is underway, and the defending champions are gearing up for their opening match. This Saturday (24th), Al Hilal will begin their title defense with an away game against Al-Okhdood Club in the first round of the competition. Naturally, many are wondering if Neymar will suit up.
Unfortunately, it seems this match comes too soon for the Brazilian star. Still in the final stages of recovering from his injury, Neymar has been ruled out for the opening fixture of the Saudi league. The 32-year-old, in fact, has yet to return to training with his teammates.
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When was Neymar’s last match, and what injury did he suffer?
Neymar hasn’t played since October 17, 2023. On that day, the former Barcelona and PSG forward suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his left knee during Brazil’s defeat to Uruguay in the South American 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The injury required surgery and a lengthy, slow rehabilitation process, which has kept him on the sidelines. According to the Saudi press, Neymar could return to action after the international break in September. Brazil announced their squad without the former Santos player, who only got to play five games for Al Hilal before his injury.
