Brazil forward Neymar has sent an emotional message of support to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo following a catastrophic knee injury that has sidelined him for the rest of the season and the 2026 World Cup.
Chronicle NG reports that Rodrygo will miss the remainder of the domestic campaign and the upcoming World Cup after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
Real Madrid verified the diagnosis following medical tests conducted after their La Liga match against Getafe.
The club said, “After the tests carried out today on our player Rodrygo by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and a rupture of the external meniscus of the right leg.”
Rodrygo sustained the injury 11 minutes after coming on as a substitute in the game. His knee buckled after a feint on the wing.
Despite evident difficulty, he completed the game, and subsequent tests verified the severity of the damage.
Rodrygo will miss Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign due to his injuries, which will require a lengthy recuperation period.
Neymar responded on social media, expressing his support for his national teammate.
Neymar wrote: “Today is one of the saddest days for me. When I found out about the injury, it all flashed before my eyes. All the suffering, all the anguish, and the fear of going through this injury!
“My number 10, my boy, my heir (as I call you), I only ask you one thing… ‘Take care of your head.’ Now is the time to surround yourself with everyone you love… And as you said, you didn’t deserve to go through this right now, but who are we to doubt God’s plans?
“Little brother … strength, I’m sure you’ll come back flying.
“I love you. In the same way you supported me, I’ll be here for you!”
Rodrygo responded to Neymar’s message with appreciation.
Rodrygo said, “Thank you, my idol! Very difficult, but God knows all things. I’ll be on the sidelines cheering for you all, as always! I love you.”
In a different post on Instagram, the Real Madrid forward also shared his feelings about the setback.
Rodrygo wrote, “One of the worst days of my life, how much I always feared this injury.
“Maybe life has been a little cruel to me lately… I don’t know if I deserve this, but what can I complain about?
“How many wonderful things have I experienced that I also didn’t deserve?
“A major obstacle has arisen in my life, in my career, preventing me from doing what I love most for a while.
“I am out for the rest of the season with my club and out of the World Cup with my country, a dream that everyone knows how much it means to me.”
“All I can do is be strong as always, which is nothing new.”
He added: “Thank you all for your prayers, messages, and affection! You are all very important to me.
“Even though this is a very difficult time, I promise not to stop here.
“I believe I still have many incredible things to experience and bring joy to everyone who trusts me. It’s just a see you soon.”
