Few players in soccer history has shown the brilliance Neymar Jr. brought to the field. Widely considered one of the greatest players of that era, behind only Lionel Messi And Cristiano Ronaldo According to many reviews, the Brazilian striker has dazzled fans around the world with his unprecedented dribbling and flair. However, his move to Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia marked a difficult chapter in his career, one that led him to a crossroads where he contemplated making a life-changing decision.

“Some days I wake up and I just want to give up” admitted Neymar, reflecting on the grueling recovery from a left knee injury that kept him sidelined for an entire year. In the Netflix documentary Saudi Pro League: kick-offthe 32-year-old superstar candidly revealed, “I admit, this injury shook me more than any other in my career.”

Ney’s career has been marked by a long history of injuries, a key factor behind Paris Saint-Germainto part ways with him in 2023, which ultimately led to his move to Al-Hilal. However, his stay in Saudi Arabia was short-lived on the field, as he only managed to play a few matches before suffering a serious ACL injury while representing Brazil in the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup during a match against Uruguay.

Neymar described the grueling recovery process in great detail, saying: “The start of an injury is quite complicated. At first, you only feel pain. I just wanted the pain to stopto bend my knee and regain movement. The mental toll was just as difficult. “I was really sad and very mentally depressed for the first month.” Neymar admitted. “It’s hard to be apart.”

Neymar Jr. of Brazil reacts after being injured during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Uruguay and Brazil at Centenario Stadium on October 17, 2023 in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Neymar found his strength in support

In the documentary, Neymar highlighted the crucial role played by his loved ones during his recovery. “If you don’t have the people you love by your side – your family, your friends – then it can be difficult to recover from an injury like this. It really bothers your mind and body,» he admitted.

Reflecting on the challenges of overcoming such a setback at this stage of his career, Neymar added: “I’m not 20 anymore. I was 31 when it happened. Acknowledging that his energy has changed with age, he expressed his deep gratitude to those around him. “I am very grateful to have my friends and family around, as well as my children who motivate me every day.”

see also

Report: Neymar to terminate Al Hilal contract in big career change

A difficult return to Al-Hilal

After nearly a year of rehabilitation, Neymar returned to action on October 21, coming off the bench in Al-Hilal’s thrilling 5-4 win over Al Ain in the AFC Champions League. However, just two weeks later, disaster struck again. Neymar suffered a torn hamstring during another AFC Champions League match, sidelining him for another four to six weeks.

According to Al-Hilal’s medical staff, it is unlikely that Neymar will return before December. Optimistically, his next opportunity to play could be December 3. match against Al Gharafa in the AFC Champions League group stage.