As previously reported, on October 18, a pivotal moment occurred during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Neymar, wearing his renowned Neymar jersey, suffered a significant knee injury. This incident, which left his global fanbase deeply worried, happened in a match Brazil lost 2-0. In a distressing scene, Neymar was taken off the field in evident distress following a collision with Nicolas de la Cruz.
This unfortunate event not only overshadows his ongoing season with Al Hilal but also raises questions about his ability to represent Brazil in the Neymar jersey for the approaching Copa America 2024. The initial medical evaluation suggests a grave ligament injury in his left knee, casting doubt over his availability for the prestigious tournament, scheduled to be hosted in the United States.
A Christmas Disappointment for Brazil
Just days before Christmas, a disappointing update emerged for hopeful Brazilian fans. Brazil’s team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, confirmed that Neymar will not recover in time from his injury to participate in the Copa America 2024.
The Brazilian medical staff initially estimated Neymar would need a minimum of eight months off the field. However, following surgery, the prognosis for Neymar’s recovery has been extended. Given Neymar’s injury history, the medical team is cautious about jeopardizing his career. His age, approaching his 32nd birthday in February, adds to the complexity of recovering from ligament surgery.
Observe as Dr. Brian Sutterer, an expert in sports medicine, gives an in-depth breakdown of the injury:
While representing Brazil, Neymar sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament and underwent surgery in November. Initially, there was optimism that the forward might recover in time for the upcoming Copa America 2024 in the summer. However, this hope has been dispelled by Brazil’s team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, who performed the surgery. Lasmar has confirmed that Neymar will not recuperate in time for the Copa America 2024, scheduled for June 2024 in the US.
“Attempting to rush the recovery process to gain a month, while taking undue risks, simply isn’t feasible. It’s too soon”
Rodrigo Lasmar explained to the Brazilian media.
“We need to be patient. Talking about a return before nine months is premature, this is a global concept for knee ligament surgeries recovery. It is very important to respect the biological time, the time the body takes to reconstruct that ligament. If we follow those steps and after a long recovery, the expectation is that he can perform again at a high level.”
Neymar’s Injury History: Over 150 Games Missed Since 2017
The Copa America 2024 isn’t the first major event Neymar has had to miss due to injury. Perhaps his most memorable setback occurred during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. In the quarter-finals, a severe back injury forced him out of the crucial semi-final and the subsequent match for third place.
Neymar played a pivotal role in Brazil’s 2014 World Cup campaign, scoring four goals while donning the Brazil World Cup jersey throughout the tournament. Unfortunately, his World Cup journey came to an abrupt end with that back injury sustained in the clash against Colombia.
Since his injury on October 18, Neymar has been receiving treatment in Brazil. This marks the second significant break from play in 2023 and the sixth in the past six seasons for Neymar, born in 1992. He frequently shares his rehabilitation progress on his personal Instagram.
In the following table, we present a detailed overview of Neymar’s injury history since 2017. This compilation not only highlights the various challenges he has faced over the years but also emphasizes the significant impact these injuries have had on his illustrious playing career. Ranging from minor knocks to severe ligament tears, the table below offers a clear depiction of the games Neymar has missed due to these setbacks, illustrating the recurring physical obstacles faced by this star player.
| Injury | Date | Games Missed |
|---|---|---|
| Minor knock | Sept 21-Sept 25, 2017 | 1 |
| Minor knock | Nov 2-Nov 13, 2017 | 1 |
| Knock | Jan 11-Jan 15, 2018 | 1 |
| Thigh problems | Jan 19-Jan 25, 2018 | 2 |
| Metatarsal fracture | Feb 26-May 27, 2018 | 16 |
| Rest | Sept 13-Sept 16, 2018 | 1 |
| Rest | Oct 19-Oct 21, 2018 | 1 |
| Adductor problems | Nov 21-Nov 27, 2018 | 1 |
| Adductor problems | Dec 3-Dec 22, 2018 | 4 |
| Rest | Jan 11-Jan 13, 2019 | 1 |
| Metatarsal fracture | Jan 24-Apr 19, 2019 | 18 |
| Ruptured ankle ligament | Jun 7-Aug 9, 2019 | 1 |
| Fitness | Aug 10- Sept 6, 2019 | 4 |
| Hamstring injury | Oct 14-Nov 20, 2019 | 6 |
| Bruised rib | Feb 3-Feb 16, 2020 | 4 |
| Coronavirus | Sept 2-Sept 11, 2020 | 1 |
| Adductor problems | Oct 28-Nov 19, 2020 | 4 |
| Rest | Dec 5-Dec 6, 2020 | 1 |
| Ankle problems | Dec 14-Jan 10, 2020-21 | 5 |
| Adductor problems | Feb 11-Mar 19, 2021 | 9 |
| Fitness | Aug 1-Aug 26, 2021 | 4 |
| Adductor problems | Oct 16-Oct 23, 2021 | 1 |
| Ankle injury | Nov 29, 2021-Feb 13, 2022 | 13 |
| Ankle injury | Nov 25-Dec 4, 2021 | 0 |
| Sprained ankle | Feb 20-june 30 2023 | 15 |
| Muscular problems | Aug 4 – Sept 3 2023 | 7 |
| Cruciate ligament tear | Oct 18 2023 – ongoing | 25 |
| Total | 147 |
The total number of games Neymar has missed, currently standing at 147, significantly highlights the impact of these injuries on both his career and his teams. This figure is anticipated to rise by at least 20-30 games, considering Neymar’s absence from the entire spring season with Al Hilal and the Copa America 2024 with Brazil.
Amidst this, the Brazilian team faces challenges, showing weak form in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with successive losses. This situation has led to diminished expectations for the Selecao’s performance in the upcoming Copa America 2024.
Copa America 2024 Draw: Brazil Leads Group D in a Tournament of Titans
In the Copa America 2024 draw, a deliberate decision to seed four dominant teams has led to exciting potential matchups. Among these powerhouses, Brazil stands out as the clear leader in Group D, a strategic placement that mirrors the positioning of Argentina in Group A, Mexico in Group B, and the USA in Group C. This arrangement sets the stage for these teams to potentially reign over their groups, with the spotlight particularly on the expected showdown in Group C.
Group D in the Copa America 2024 presents a challenging path for Brazil, a soccer powerhouse now grappling with Neymar’s absence due to injury. They’re up against Colombia, a team with a strong Copa America track record, including a championship win in 2001 and a recent 2-1 victory over Brazil in a World Cup qualifier, led by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz.
This challenge is intensified by the confirmed absence of Neymar, a crucial loss for the team. His unavailability, a definite blow to Brazil’s squad, echoes the situation in 2019 when he was initially named in the squad but had to withdraw due to injury.
Yet, Colombia isn’t Brazil’s only concern in Group D. Paraguay, with its own distinguished Copa America history, including two titles and six finals appearances, the most recent in 2011, also poses a significant threat. Their captain, Gustavo Gomez of Palmeiras, has a deep understanding of Brazilian football, while key players from Gremio and Corinthians add strategic depth to their roster.
Thus, Group D shapes up as one of the most competitive and captivating groups in the Copa America 2024, promising each match to be a high-stakes, exhilarating display of soccer. Reflect on Brazil’s most recent Copa America triumph in 2019, adding to their impressive legacy with 21 finals appearances and 9 championships. That victory underscored Brazil’s enduring soccer prowess and their storied history in the tournament.
Don’t miss out on the full scoop of the Copa America 2024 draw! Dive into the details of the other Copa America 2024 groups‘ matchups and get a comprehensive view of what to expect in this thrilling tournament.
Get ready to explore the iconic venues where Brazil will showcase their skills in Copa America 2024! We’re bringing you an exclusive look at the stadiums set to host Brazil’s matches, promising an electrifying atmosphere and top-tier football action. Stay tuned for a tour of these legendary grounds, each with its own unique flair and history, making them perfect stages for Brazil’s pursuit of glory in Copa America 2024.