Al Hilal sweating on Ruben Neves recovery after muscle injury

Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves is expected to spend three to four weeks undergoing treatment and rehabilitation after suffering a muscle injury during the Saudi Pro League victory over Al Fateh.

The Portugal international was unable to complete the match in normal condition as Al Hilal secured a 2-0 win in the 12th round of the competition. He subsequently missed the club’s AFC Champions League Elite fixture against Shabab Al Ahli, which Al Hilal also won 2-0.

The extent of Neves’ absence was reported by sports broadcaster Hamad Al-Suwailhi on the programme Dourina Ghair. The proposed recovery period could rule the midfielder out of several of Al Hilal’s upcoming matches, although the club is still awaiting further assessment of his condition.

Neves’ injury is a significant concern for manager Simone Inzaghi, given the midfielder’s importance to the team’s structure. He has played a central role in controlling the tempo of matches, directing play from midfield and creating opportunities with his passing range.

His contribution also goes beyond defensive work and winning possession. Neves is heavily involved in starting attacks and helping organise his team during matches, acting as a link between midfield and attack.

His ability to play accurate passes through the opposition’s lines has made him one of Al Hilal’s key players in possession. His absence would therefore affect both the team’s defensive balance and its ability to build attacks from deep.

Inzaghi will now have to decide how best to cover the potential loss of the Portugal midfielder. That could involve redistributing responsibilities among the existing midfielders or turning to other options in the squad while Neves completes his treatment and rehabilitation programme.

Al Hilal’s listed Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Ettifaq is scheduled for 07 November 2026, adding to the focus on whether Neves can return within the expected timeframe. The club will continue to monitor his progress before determining when he can resume playing.

For now, Al Hilal face a period without one of their main playmakers as they continue competing in both the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League Elite.