Neymar's devastating injury setback confirmed as Al Hilal issue statement

The severity of Neymar's injury has been confirmed by Saudi Professional League side Al Hilal.

Last month, 32-year-old Brazilian star Neymar made his long awaited return to the football pitch after recovering from his anterior cruciate ligament injury.

During Al Hilal's AFC Champions League clash against Al Ain, Neymar came on in the 77th minute to replace Nasser Al Dawsari.

However, Neymar's comeback was halted earlier in the week after he was taken off during Monday's win over Esteghlal FC.

The forward was brought on in the 58th minute by Al Hilal boss Jorge Jesus but was then forced off just 29 minutes after entering the fray. Neymar was visibly upset when the camera captured him on the bench.

On Wednesday, Al Hilal confirmed Neymar had suffered a hamstring tear.

A statement read: "The scans revealed that Neymar Jr. has suffered a tear in his hamstring. He will undergo a treatment and rehabilitation program that will last from four to six weeks."

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Neymar joined Al Hilal last summer after ditching European football by leaving French Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint Germain.

However, the Brazilian has only managed seven appearances for the Saudi Arabian side before his return against Al Ain last month.

Prior to the confirmation of the severity of his injury, Neymar took to social media to provide fans with a brief update.

He wrote on Instagram: "Great game from the team, very happy to be back playing at home... and thank you for the love from the fans!!

"Now it’s time to recover… We remain firm and strong."

So far in his career, Neymar has made 591 club appearances for the likes of Santos, Barcelona, PSG and Al Hilal, scoring 360 goals in the process.

Whilst playing in Europe, Neymar lifted the La Liga title, Ligue 1 trophy and the Champions League among other trophies.