Neymar injury woes continue as Santos lose Brazilian superstar for 2025 Serie A opener against Vasco da Gama

The Brazil icon had to pull out of Dorival Junior's Selecao squad for their World Cup qualifying matches this month after he sustained a thigh injury. Neymar, who rekindled his love for football following his move from Al-Hilal to Santos in January, was all set to represent the Selecao for the first time since September 2023, however, his return to the national team was delayed following a fresh injury setback.

TNT Sports in Brazil now reports that the 33-year-old has been ruled out of Santos' Serie A opener against Vasco da Gama on Sunday as he is not yet fully fit. The news comes as a huge blow for Santos, who were looking forward to having Neymar on the pitch on their return to the top division.

The Brazil national team did feel Neymar's absence as they helplessly surrendered in front of the world champions and arch-rivals Argentina in their latest World Cup qualifying game on Tuesday. Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister and Giuliano Simeone were all on target as La Albiceleste picked up a thumping 4-1 win.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star will aim to regain fitness before April 4 when Santos face Bahia in their second league game.