It’s not the way Neymar wanted to start his 2022 FIFA World Cup, but the Paris Saint-Germain star picked up an ankle injury during Brazil’s 2-0 win over Serbia on Sunday.
Now it appears the 30-year-old will be out for the remainder of the group stage and will be available for the knockout stages. However, rather than confirm and talk to the media, the Brazilian went on Instagram to share his initial thoughts on the injury.
“Today has become one of the hardest moments of my career,” Neymar said. “I have an injury; it’s annoying, it’s going to hurt, but I’m sure I’ll have the chance to come back because I’m going to do my best to help my country and my teammates.”
After the match, manager Tite and the Brazil national team doctor spoke following the win to calm the flames since television cameras caught Neymar in tears, leading speculation to run wild over his World Cup being over.
Nonetheless, Neymar is likely back when Brazil needs him the most. For now, the South American nation will need to win at least one of their next two matches to likely punch their ticket to the next round when it becomes crucial that the team is at full strength.