Not again! Neymar facing weeks out after latest injury blow at Santos

The cruelest cycle in Brazilian football has turned once more: Neymar is injured again, just as he finally looked fit.

Details: The 34 year old underwent tests today after feeling pain in his thigh during Wednesday's Copa do Brasil quarter final second leg against Palmeiras. He was substituted at half time of the goalless draw at Vila Belmiro, a result that sent Santos crashing out 3-0 on aggregate, and is now set to miss the coming weeks.

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The timing is bitter. Neymar had only recently returned to something resembling rhythm after the injury nightmare that has defined his second spell at Santos, where he has managed just 24 appearances this year amid recurring muscle and knee problems. After the match, he aimed fire at the state of the Vila Belmiro pitch, blasting the decision to aerate the grass a day before the game. The layoff also threatens his involvement in Brazil's autumn friendlies as the Selecao's all time top scorer fights to remain in the picture after the World Cup. For a player who has spoken openly about how much football he has left, every new setback feels heavier than the last.

It's worth noting that Neymar had just earned a piece of World Cup history this summer, becoming only the fourth Brazilian to achieve a unique milestone at the tournament before this latest setback.

Reminder: Cherif Ndiaye announces his retirement from international football.