Neymar Departs Al-Hilal by Mutual Consent After Injury – Stricken Spell
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, January 28, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Neymar has officially parted ways with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, the Saudi Pro League champions announced on Monday. The Brazilian forward widely regard as one of the world’s most talented players, struggled during his brief stint at the club due to injuries and limited appearances.
The 32-year-old sustained a serious knee injury while playing for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. Since then, he has found it challenging to return to top form.
“Al-Hilal Club Company and Neymar Jr. have agreed to terminate their contractual relationship by mutual consent”, the club posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Neymar’s time at Al-Hilal was far from what fans had hoped. After transferring from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for a reported fee of 90 million euros ($98 million), Neymar played only seven matches for the club. The injury cut short his contributions and left his potential unfulfilled in Saudi Arabia.
According to reports from Brazilian media, Neymar may be set for a return to Santos, his boyhood club, where he first made his mark as a football prodigy. Neymar left Santos in 2013 to join Barcelona, where he became one of the brightest star in global football. His move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 for a record – breaking 222 million euros ($242 million) remains the most expensive transfer in football history.
If confirmed, the return to Santos would be a significant homecoming for Neymar, giving him the opportunity to reignite his career in familiar surroundings.
Neymar’s departure marks a disappointing chapter for Al-Hilal, who had hoped the Brazilian star would help elevate the Saudi Pro League’s global reputation. His signing was part of the league’s broader strategy to attract high-profile players.
As Neymar considers his next move, football fans will be watching closely to see if the player can overcame his injury setbacks and return to the form that made him one of the most exciting talents in football. Whether at Santos or elsewhere, Neymar’s next chapter promises to be one of redemption and resurgence.
(Reporting by Reuters)