Neymar Back on the Pitch After ACL Injury, Helps Al Hilal to AFC Champions League Win

Brazilian footballer Neymar made his long-awaited return to the pitch, joining his Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal in a thrilling 5-4 victory against UAE’s Al Ain in the AFC Champions League. The 32-year-old superstar entered the game at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in the 77th minute, marking a significant comeback after more than a year out due to a severe knee injury.

Neymar had been sidelined after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while on international duty for Brazil, just months after joining Al Hilal in a high-profile transfer in 2023. His injury left him watching from the sidelines as his team excelled, which he described as emotionally challenging.

Ahead of his return, Neymar opened up about the difficulties he faced during his year-long recovery in a tearful interview. Speaking on the NR Sports YouTube channel, the former PSG star expressed his deep pain at being away from the game: “I have suffered every day I’ve been away from the pitch. This is what hurts me the most.”

His long-awaited comeback was widely celebrated, with Al Hilal’s official Instagram account sharing a heartfelt post that read, “Neymar is back to the field,” marking the return of their Brazilian talisman.

Neymar’s presence on the field provided a morale boost to his teammates and fans alike, signaling the start of a new chapter as he aims to regain full form after a difficult year off the pitch.