Al Hilal face lengthy Ruben Neves absence after lower abdominal injury

Al Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi is concerned that Ruben Neves could be sidelined for an extended period after the Portugal midfielder suffered a lower abdominal injury against Al Fateh.

Neves was injured during Al Hilal’s 2-0 victory over Al Fateh in the 12th round of the Roshn Saudi League. Initial assessments suggest the 29-year-old could be out for between three and four weeks.

However, that absence could become significantly longer if the midfielder requires surgery. The injury is understood to involve the lower abdominal muscles, an area which can prove difficult to treat and recover from.

Saudi programme Dawrina Ghair reported that Neves may undergo an operation because of the nature of the injury. It described the problem as “one of the difficult injuries”.

“If Neves undergoes surgery, his absence from the pitch could last longer, particularly as Al Hilal have not announced the length of his lay-off so far,” the programme added.

The club have yet to confirm the extent of the injury or provide a definitive timetable for Neves’ return. That leaves the midfielder’s availability dependent on further medical assessments and a decision over whether an operation is necessary.

Neves has been one of the leading midfielders in the Roshn Saudi League and is regarded as one of the outstanding players in his position worldwide. He joined Al Hilal in the summer of 2023 and has been an important contributor since his arrival.

The Portugal international has made 14 appearances for Al Hilal during the current season across domestic and continental competitions. He has scored nine goals and supplied four assists during that run.

His possible absence would therefore deprive Simone Inzaghi of a player who has made a substantial attacking contribution as well as operating in midfield. The initial estimate of three to four weeks could keep Neves out for a significant period, while surgery would extend that timeframe further.

Al Hilal’s victory over Al Fateh was their latest match in the 12th round of the Saudi league, but the immediate focus is now on determining the full extent of Neves’ injury. Until the club issues an official update, the duration of his absence remains uncertain.