Neymar was forced off at half-time against Palmeiras after feeling pain in his right thigh, making him a major doubt for Santos’ upcoming fixtures.

Neymar suffers new thigh injury as Santos fear another absence

Santos have suffered another Neymar injury scare after the Brazilian was forced off with pain in his right thigh against Palmeiras.

Neymar started the second leg of the Copa do Brasil quarter-final at Vila Belmiro but began showing discomfort late in the first half. He repeatedly touched his thigh, appeared limited in his movement and did not return after the break.

Santos replaced him with Rony, shifting attention from their Copa do Brasil elimination to Neymar’s physical condition.

Cuca admits Santos are concerned

Santos coach Cuca confirmed that Neymar would need further examination and suggested the player may have suffered a muscular problem.

Cuca admitted Santos would have to “find a way” if their No.10 is ruled out.

However, the club has not yet confirmed the severity of the injury or provided a recovery timetable. It remains unclear whether Neymar is dealing with a strain, tear or less serious muscular overload.

Neymar is a major doubt for Internacional

Santos face Internacional on Sunday in an important Brasileirão fixture at Beira-Rio, with Neymar now considered a serious doubt.

The club will then meet Atlético-MG in the Copa Sudamericana on September 9, meaning even a short absence could affect another key match.

Another setback after a difficult night

Neymar returned to the starting XI as Santos attempted to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit against Palmeiras. Despite their efforts, Santos could only draw 0-0 and were eliminated from the competition.

The injury made an already disappointing night even more damaging.

Neymar had recently enjoyed a more consistent period since returning to Santos, making 25 appearances this season with eight goals and eight assists, according to Brazilian reports.

Santos await medical tests

Santos remain heavily dependent on Neymar for creativity and attacking quality, so a prolonged absence would be a major blow.

For now, it would be premature to predict how long he will be sidelined.

The next medical examinations should determine whether this is a short-term scare or another significant injury setback for the Brazilian superstar.