Neymar's Al Hilal return could be dealt 'major setback' following physical and medical tests

Neymar's return to action could be a dealt a major setback, according to reports.

Neymar played just five times for new club Al Hilal when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament while playing for Brazil in October 2023.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star underwent successful surgery and Al Hilal recently shared pictures of him back on the training pitch.

Manager Jorge Jesus had been hopeful of Neymar returning this month yet there is talk that his comeback could be delayed.

Brazil's record goalscorer has been taking part in a number of exercises and tests but a leading physiotherapist believes he is still far away in his recovery.

X user @ithamer_7, who has 200,000 followers, shared his thoughts on a number of different medical tests.

Posting on his page, he wrote: "Neymar and the high jump.. to complete the rehabilitation. From today’s training of the Al Hilal star in high jump, which is one of the exercises that are applied in the advanced stages of treatment and preparation: It needs to develop in terms of speed and stability, and this will improve with the development of exercises in the coming period.

"He was expected to return during this month (September), but it may be delayed if he passes the return tests and is in high readiness.

"In today’s jumping exercise, standing on one foot forward and to the side, some points become clear: Poor stability, Weakness in knee descent, Lack of confidence and fear of going down.

"This explains the possibility of his inability to pass the tests now, and it is better to continue preparing until reaching the highest level.

"Neymar did not pass the physical and medical tests, as I mentioned previously in the video about the weaknesses and defects that the Brazilian star complains about.

"It will take longer to complete the qualification and preparation."

Neymar penned a two-year contract with Al Hilal last summer after they paid PSG £86.3 million for his services.

Neymar earns around £2.65 million a week with the Riyadh club, who are top of the Saudi Pro League with two wins from two.