
Neymar’s time at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal has come to an end after his contract was terminated by mutual agreement. The 32-year-old Brazilian joined Al-Hilal in August 2023 for €90m (£77.6m) but managed just seven appearances for the club due to persistent injuries.
A Brief and Troubled Spell
- Neymar signed a two-year deal with Al-Hilal, earning a reported €150m (£129.2m) annually, aiming to “write new sporting history.”
- However, his time in Saudi Arabia was marred by injuries, including a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament sustained during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023.
He returned to action briefly in October 2024 but featured only as a substitute in November. In total, Neymar has made just two appearances this season.
Al-Hilal’s Statement
“The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career at Al-Hilal and wishes the player success in his career,” Al-Hilal said in their official announcement. Neymar had approximately seven months remaining on his contract at the time of its termination.
What’s Next for Neymar?
The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a return to his boyhood club Santos, where he first rose to prominence. Neymar scored 136 goals in 225 matches for the Brazilian club before moving to Barcelona in 2013.
Neymar’s Career Highlights
- Santos (2009-2013): Emerged as a prodigy, scoring 136 goals in 225 games.
- Barcelona (2013-2017): Played 186 matches, winning two La Liga titles, the Champions League, and the Club World Cup.
- Paris Saint-Germain (2017-2023): Became the world’s most expensive footballer with a €222m (£200m) move. Won five Ligue 1 titles in Paris.
- Brazil National Team: Overtook Pele as Brazil’s all-time leading male goalscorer with 78 goals but has not featured for his country since his knee injury in 2023.
A Career in Transition
Neymar’s departure from Al-Hilal underscores the challenges of maintaining peak performance amidst recurring injuries. With rumors of a return to Santos circulating, the next chapter in his storied career could see him back where it all began, rekindling the passion that defined his early years.