Why did Neymar miss Al Hilal vs Al Taawoun match in SPL?

The Samba superstar returned to action recently after being sidelined for over a year due to injury.

Neymar Jr. grabbed headlines as he featured for Al Hilal in the 5-4 win over Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite on 21st October, marking his return to football after a year-long absence. Once touted to be Lionel Messi’s successor at FC Barcelona, Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer has frequently struggled with injuries that have marred his illustrious career. 

The wait is over ⌛️Neymar is on the pitch 🥹Score so far: Al Ain 3-5 Al-Hilal #Football #ACLElite #AlAin #AlHilal #Neymar pic.twitter.com/pW5rYVsCa4

— Khel Now World Football (@KhelNowWF) October 21, 2024

Neymar was ruled out of action after suffering a cruciate ligament injury on 19th October last year. The winger had previously undergone surgery for an equally grave ankle injury which he sustained in the Selecao’s 2022 FIFA World Cup win over Serbia. While niggling issues saw him feature sporadically for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal over the next year, a knock to his knee saw him sidelined till a week back. 

However, the Brazilian trickster was back to his scintillating best against last year’s AFC Champions League winners, showcasing glimpses of his trademark flair and aplomb, which nearly saw him get on the scoresheet following a swift counterattack by Al Hilal. A hard-fought win saw the Blue Waves top the West Asian group standings.

Related: Al Hilal vs Al Taawoun Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

Why did Neymar miss Al Hilal vs Al Taawoun match in SPL??

While Neymar looked fit to feature for Al Hilal against Al Taawoun, he was not named in the matchday squad for the match. Manager Jorge Jesus was likely looking to ease the Brazilian back into action. He wouldn’t want to risk losing the iconic attacker, especially since Al Hilal are comfortably perched at the top of the Saudi Pro League with a staggering 21 points after getting seven wins from seven games. Although eighth-placed Al-Tawoon are not to be taken lightly, Neymar’s side can etch out a good performance without his presence throughout the game.

📋 This is our lineup for today’s match ✔️All the best 💙#AlHilal #RoshnSaudiLeague 💫 pic.twitter.com/mTDlIZ9A8r

— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) October 26, 2024

Neymar could start on the bench and be brought on late, in their upcoming match. Given the former PSG forward’s susceptibility to injury, Al Hilal must allow him time to recuperate and get back to full-match fitness before he plays 90 minutes. 

Additionally, the winger’s contributions will be more crucial during the final run-in of the season as the Blue Power will want to defend their league title and get their hands on the AFC Champions League Elite. Amidst all this, reports have also surfaced suggesting a possible reunion with Messi at Inter Miami.

It remains to be seen if the fairytale move will at all go through, but for now the Brazilian has his sights set on achieving the highest accolades with Al Hilal. Neymar has registered three assists and one goal for his side over five appearances in both competitions since joining the Saudi outfit on 15th August last year.

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