Neymar to miss six weeks at PSG with ankle injury that left him screaming in pain

Neymar will no longer play for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 with GOAL able to confirm the Brazilian striker is out for up to six weeks due to an ankle injury.

The 29-year-old was forced off the pitch on a stretcher after awkwardly landing during the Ligue 1 clash with Saint-Etienne.

Reports in France were quick to suggest that the South American superstar will be missing until early January.

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What happened to Neymar?

PSG had recovered from a drop of a goal in Saint-Etienne to lead 2-1 before the finals.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side would get a third in stoppage time, but this Marquinhos effort was saved after Neymar was forced off the pitch.

With only two minutes remaining when the 2021 Ballon d’Or contender sought to escape the attentions of his scorer.

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Jumping over a challenge, Neymar planted his foot on Yvann Macon’s outstretched leg. As his ankle turned, the Brazil international screamed in pain and immediately called for medical assistance.

He was then seen leaving the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium on crutches, raising concerns he could be sidelined for an extended period.

What has been said about Neymar’s injury?

Pochettino then told reporters: “Of course we are worried, but we hope it’s nothing too serious and that he can come back to help the team as soon as possible.”

Neymar also posted on social media: “Unfortunately, these setbacks are a part of an athlete’s life. Now you have to lift your head and move on. I will come back better and stronger.”

How many matches will Neymar miss?

Neymar is due to undergo further medical examinations on Monday, but it is believed he suffered a severe sprained left ankle.

PSG are due to head to warm-weather training in Qatar on January 16, and Neymar may not return to contention until shortly before that trip.

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If he has to miss the next six weeks, he will be forced to forgo national fixtures with Nice, Lens, Monaco and Lorient before the winter Ligue 1 break, as well as the last Champions League group stage clash with Club Brugge.

PSG are due to face Lyon on January 9, but that game could come too soon for Neymar and it could be in a home game with Brest the following weekend where he will make his return to competition.