Neymar parts ways with Al-Hilal after short stint amid injury struggles
Brazilian superstar Neymar has officially parted ways with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, the Saudi Pro League champions confirmed on Monday. The decision marks the end of a brief and challenging spell for Brazil’s all-time leading scorer at the club.
The 32-year-old forward sustained a serious knee injury during Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, which significantly impacted his performance and recovery.
"Al-Hilal Club Company and Neymar Jr. have agreed to terminate their contractual relationship by mutual consent," the Saudi club announced on X (formerly Twitter).
Since his high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023, reportedly for a fee of €90 million ($98 million), Neymar managed just seven appearances for Al-Hilal.
Speculation is mounting that Neymar will make an emotional return to his boyhood club, Santos, which he left in 2013 to join Barcelona. Brazilian media suggest this move could reunite Neymar with the team where his professional career began.
Neymar's career has seen historic transfers, including his 2017 move to PSG from Barcelona for a record-breaking €222 million. Despite the ups and downs, he remains a legend for Brazil, scoring 79 goals for the national team to date.
Return to Santos on the Horizon?
Reports suggest Neymar could officially rejoin Santos as early as Wednesday, according to ESPN Brazil. Although he has attracted interest from MLS clubs, a homecoming to Santos appears the most likely destination.
Neymar himself has made it clear that he intends to play in the 2026 World Cup, viewing it as his final opportunity on football’s biggest stage.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 127 appearances, has experienced a rollercoaster career:
- Rose to prominence at Santos, scoring 107 goals in 177 games before moving to Barcelona in 2013.
- Won the Champions League (2015) alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, forming the iconic 'MSN' trio.
- Led Brazil to Olympic gold in 2016, scoring the winning penalty in the final.
- Became the world’s most expensive player in 2017, transferring to PSG for €220 million ($230 million).
- Won five Ligue 1 titles but never fully delivered Champions League success for PSG.
- Departed for Saudi Arabia in 2023, but injuries hampered his stint with Al Hilal.
With his return to Santos imminent, Neymar’s career could come full circle as he seeks one final chapter ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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