Neymar, one of football’s most electrifying stars, is at a career crossroads. Currently recovering from a hamstring injury, the Brazilian forward’s future at Al Hilal seems bleak after his coach, Jorge Jesus, stated that the 32-year-old “can no longer play at the level we are used to.”
With Al Hilal opting not to register him for the second half of the Saudi Pro League season, Neymar is exploring options, with a return to his boyhood club Santos emerging as his priority.
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Neymar’s Struggles in Saudi Arabia
Neymar joined Al Hilal in 2023 for $98.6 million, signing a lucrative deal that promised an annual salary of around $100 million. However, his stint in Saudi Arabia has been plagued by injuries, limiting him to just seven appearances and one goal. The club has decided to exclude him from the league squad due to his ongoing fitness issues and the foreign player quota, further complicating his situation.
While Al Hilal intends for Neymar to play in the Club World Cup later this year, the player himself is unwilling to remain sidelined until June. His lack of consistent playing time has prompted him to seek a move, potentially as a loanee, since a transfer fee is unlikely with his contract expiring in a few months.
Santos: A Sentimental Homecoming
For Neymar, returning to Santos, the club where his illustrious career began, is more than just a professional move—it’s a deeply personal aspiration. According to ESPN, Santos is his preferred destination as he dreams of finishing his career where it all started.
Neymar’s father, Neymar Sr., shares close ties with the Teixeira family, who own Santos, making the prospect of a reunion more feasible. Despite Santos CEO Pedro Martins denying advanced negotiations, he stated, “The club is monitoring Neymar’s situation to see how he will resolve his case with his current club.”
Neymar envisions reviving Santos’ glory days, leaving a lasting legacy, and helping the team reclaim its place among Brazil’s elite before he hangs up his boots.
MLS Beckons: A Commercially Attractive Alternative
While Santos tops Neymar’s list, Major League Soccer (MLS) presents an alluring alternative. Reports suggest three MLS clubs, including the Chicago Fire, have shown interest in signing the Brazilian superstar. A delegation from one of the franchises has already traveled to Riyadh to discuss a potential deal.
For Neymar, the MLS offers more than just football—it provides a platform to bolster his global brand. Additionally, a stint in the U.S. would leave the door open for a future return to Santos, allowing him to balance both professional and personal ambitions.
Limited Interest from Europe
At 32 and with a poor injury record over the past 18 months, Neymar’s prospects in Europe’s top leagues appear limited. Few clubs in the Big Five leagues are willing to take a chance on a player with declining fitness and astronomical wage demands, even on a free transfer.
Despite this, Neymar remains a marquee name in football and could attract interest from ambitious projects outside the traditional European powerhouses. However, his age and lack of recent playing time make a return to Europe unlikely.
As it stands, Neymar’s immediate future seems tied to Al Hilal, at least until the summer, when he will likely become a free agent. He may feature sparingly in the Asian Champions League but will ultimately prioritize a full recovery.
Whether he chooses Santos or MLS as his next destination, Neymar’s focus is clear: reignite his career, leave a legacy, and finish on a high note. His decision will mark the next chapter in a storied journey that has captivated football fans worldwide.
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FAQs
Why is Neymar leaving Al Hilal?
Neymar is reportedly leaving Al Hilal due to injuries and the club’s decision not to register him for the second half of the Saudi Pro League season. Limited playing time and fitness concerns have prompted him to explore other options.
What makes Santos Neymar’s preferred destination?
Santos is Neymar’s boyhood club, and he dreams of finishing his career there. He aims to leave a lasting legacy by helping Santos reclaim its position among Brazil’s elite teams.
Is Neymar considering a move to MLS?
Yes, Neymar is open to joining Major League Soccer, with three clubs, including the Chicago Fire, showing interest. The MLS offers him a chance to expand his global brand while keeping the option of returning to Santos in the future.
What challenges does Neymar face in securing a transfer?
Neymar’s high wages, injury history, and limited recent playing time make it difficult for clubs in top leagues to pursue him. However, a loan deal or reduced financial demands could facilitate a move.
Will Neymar stay at Al Hilal until the summer?
There is a possibility Neymar might remain at Al Hilal until his contract ends in the summer of 2025. If so, he may play in the Asian Champions League before leaving as a free agent.
