How long is Neymar out: Latest news on Brazil World Cup star’s ankle injury that had him in tears vs Serbia

Brazil have started their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign in fine form, with a 2-0 win over Serbia on Thursday — but there is a looming big worry for the Selecao, after an injury to star attacker Neymar.

Richarlison scored a second-half double in the crucial win, that sees the Selecao claim an early place at the top of Group G. 

But more worrying was that superstar Neymar left the field in tears, after suffering a heavy knock late in the game to his ankle. 

The PSG attacker is no stranger to suffering injuries at the worst time, and all eyes will now be on his fitness moving forward. 

The Sporting News will keep you updated with the latest as the Brazil striker’s injury is assessed. 

MORE: Brazil World Cup squad, who could replace Neymar if he is injured?

Neymar World Cup injury latest

After playing a part in Brazil’s opening goal against Serbia on November 24, Neymar was forced from the field in the 80th minute.

The 30-year-old had been down on the ground after being subjected to a heavy tackle that seemed to hurt his right ankle, which was immediately treated by Brazil’s medical staff. 

Neymar targeted throughout the Serbia match, fouled a tournament-high nine times, and he eventually felt the full weight of one of those challenges. 

Neymar was visibly emotional after leaving the field, and he was seen in tears on the bench — with fears the injury may now limit his involvement in the 2022 World Cup.

Brazil will look to assess the injury further, with likely scans over the next 24 hours to confirm the extent of Neymar’s latest blow. 

Based on his immediate reactions and the subsequent swelling, the news may not be good for him or the team, as they look to win their first World Cup in 20 years — although coach Tite told the press afterwards that he is hopeful it will not be serious.

He insisted: “Neymar is going to play [in the rest of the World Cup]. I can be absolutely sure that Neymar is going to play!”

When will Neymar play again for Brazil?

Neymar is set to miss the rest of Brazil’s group matches, although it is hoped he will return for the round of 16 should they qualify as expected.

The injury news was reported by Brazilian outlet Globo, which also reported right-back Danilo is set for a similar lay off after suffering an ankle injury of his own.

“The scans showed a lateral ligament injury on Neymar’s right ankle, along with a small bone swelling. And a medial ligament injury in Danilo’s left ankle,” team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar said.

That gives Neymar around 11 days to rest and try to be fit before Brazil likely take to the field in the knockout stages.

MORE: Best goal of World Cup so far? Richarlison’s scissor-kick for Brazil, hands down

Who could Brazil replace Neymar with?

An injury to Neymar would leave a rather big hole to fill on the pitch for Brazil.

He was pivotal in their opening goal of the 2022 World Cup against Serbia, with his one-on-one ability nearly impossible to match.

Neymar was replaced by Antony against Serbia and the Manchester United youngster certainly has the creative skills to fill some of Neymar’s void. 

Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes looms as another possible option, and the 25-year-old wasn’t used at all in Brazil’s opening match, so he will be raring to go.

Guimaraes is slightly more defensive-minded than Neymar, however, so Tite may need to shift his formation somewhat to account for that.

Bruno Guimaraes of Brazil celebrates vs Bolivia

Neymar injury history

Unfortunately, Neymar is no stranger to injuries at the worst possible time when it comes to playing for Brazil. 

The 30-year-old missed his team’s infamous 7-1 loss to Germany at the 2014 World Cup after hurting his back. 

Four years later, Neymar struggled somewhat in Russia after fracturing his fifth metatarsal just three months before the start of the tournament. 

It now appears to be a case of third time unlucky, as Brazil sweat on their superstar’s fitness in Qatar. 

Neymar had arrived at the 2022 World Cup in form and fit, with his last injury absence at club level dating back to early February this year. 

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