Source: REUTERS/WALID ZAIN
[Saba Sports News] In a recent AFC Champions League match, Al-Hilal defeated Esteghlal Tehran 3-0. Notably, Neymar Junior came on as a substitute in the 58th minute but was substituted again in the 87th minute due to injury. This was only Neymar’s second match since his return; in the previous AFC Champions League match against Al Ain, he returned to the field after 370 days. In two substitute appearances, Neymar has played only 42 minutes in total. After leaving the field, Neymar appeared somewhat dejected. After the match, Al-Hilal head coach Jorge Jesus spoke about Neymar’s injury. Jorge Jesus stated: “Neymar’s injury is not light; this issue is complex. He likes to play at a faster pace and needs to adapt gradually. His injury is a muscle injury; we expect him to be out for at least two weeks.” Neymar’s injury is muscle-related rather than a knee injury. It may take Neymar two weeks to return to the team… I know his situation is difficult. I made the right decision not to include him in the domestic match roster because Neymar is an excellent player who always wants to play at high intensity!