Neymar's emotional struggle through ACL recovery captured in heartbreaking footage
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Neymar's ACL recovery || Credit: Imago and Marca

Neymar's emotional struggle through ACL recovery captured in heartbreaking footage

Stephen Oladehinde 10:08 - 21.12.2023

Neymar, the renowned Brazilian footballer, has been enduring a challenging recovery following a severe ACL injury. This injury, sustained during international duty, required surgery in November and has significantly affected his season.

Neymar's ACL Injury and Immediate Aftermath

According to The Sun, the recovery process for Neymar has been intense and gruelling. Earlier footage showed him in considerable pain during the initial stages of rehabilitation post-surgery. 

More recent videos depict him struggling to walk even with crutches, highlighting the severity of his condition. The scenes are distressing, with Neymar visibly in agony, navigating down a flight of steps to reach the treatment table, where he is heard screaming and crying during the therapy sessions. 

These moments underscore the physical toll of the rehabilitation process as physiotherapists work diligently to restore movement to his injured knee.

Impact on Career and Future Prospects

Neymar's injury has jeopardized his entire season, sidelining him for an estimated six to ten months. Despite this setback, Neymar had expressed hope about potentially participating in the 2024 Copa America scheduled for June. 

Neymar of Brazil: Imago
Neymar of Brazil: Imago

However, Brazil’s national team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, has indicated that Neymar's return to fitness is expected only by August, making his participation in the Copa America unlikely. 

Lasmar emphasized the importance of not rushing the recovery and allowing sufficient time for the ligament to heal properly.

Neymar in pain || Marca
Neymar in pain || Marca

Since joining Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August, Neymar has only played five games for his new team, having battled various muscle injuries. 

His absence from the field has been a significant blow to both his club and country, with his team currently performing well in the Pro League, as per Sport Bible 

Neymar in crutches || Marca
Neymar in crutches || Marca

Fan and Media Reactions

The empathy and concern from fans worldwide have been evident on social media, where many have expressed their sympathies and hopes for Neymar's successful recovery. 

This situation serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and risks athletes face, and the resilience required to overcome such significant injuries.

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