By SRTeam Brazilian football superstar Neymar Jr. and Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal have mutually agreed to terminate their contract, marking an abrupt end to what was expected to be a marquee partnership in Saudi Arabian football. The decision comes amid Neymar’s ongoing battle with injuries, which have sidelined him for most of his short-lived tenure at the club.
Neymar, who signed with Al Hilal in August 2023 for a record €90 million transfer fee, was brought in as part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious football project. However, his spell in the league has been marred by fitness issues, leaving both the player and the club frustrated.
A Disappointing Saudi Stint
The Brazilian forward joined Al Hilal as one of the most high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League’s recent history, alongside stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané. Expectations were sky-high as Neymar was seen as a key figure in Saudi Arabia’s footballing revolution, aimed at making the league one of the most competitive in the world.
However, Neymar’s time in the Middle East did not go as planned. He made just five appearances for Al Hilal before suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023 while playing for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury—a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus damage—required surgery, effectively ruling him out for the rest of the 2023-24 season.
With no guarantees about his full recovery and Al Hilal looking to restructure their squad, both parties decided that parting ways was the best course of action.
Why Was the Contract Terminated?
Several factors led to Neymar’s premature exit from Al Hilal:
- Long-Term Injury – Neymar’s ACL injury made it impossible for him to contribute to the team, making his massive wages a burden on the club’s finances.
- Squad Reshuffle – With Al Hilal leading the Saudi Pro League and performing well in the AFC Champions League, the club is looking for fit and reliable players to maintain its dominance.
- Financial Considerations – Neymar was earning an estimated €100 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid footballers in the world. His limited availability made this deal unsustainable.
- Unfulfilled Expectations – Neymar was expected to be a game-changer in the Saudi Pro League, boosting the league’s profile. His absence meant that his impact was negligible.
What’s Next for Neymar?
At 32 years old, Neymar still has a few years left at the top level, but his recurring injury problems raise concerns about his future. His immediate focus will be on rehabilitation, with the hope of making a full recovery before the 2024 Copa América, where Brazil will count on him for leadership.
Several options could be on the table for Neymar after his recovery:
- Return to Europe: While unlikely given his high wages, a return to Europe with clubs like Barcelona or Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) could be considered, especially if he takes a pay cut.
- MLS Move: The Major League Soccer (MLS) has emerged as a lucrative destination for aging superstars, with Neymar potentially joining Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
- Brazilian Homecoming: A return to his boyhood club Santos FC could be a sentimental move, allowing him to regain form in familiar surroundings.
- Another Saudi Club: Despite his struggles, Neymar remains a marketable player, and other Saudi clubs could attempt to sign him if he proves his fitness.
Al Hilal’s Future Without Neymar
Despite Neymar’s absence, Al Hilal has been thriving, currently leading the Saudi Pro League. The club has found offensive stability through players like Aleksandar Mitrović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Malcom. They are still favorites to win the domestic league and remain strong contenders in continental competitions.
With Neymar’s departure, Al Hilal might now target another marquee signing in the summer transfer window, possibly reigniting interest in top European players.
Conclusion
Neymar’s tenure at Al Hilal will go down as one of the biggest disappointments in recent football transfers. What was supposed to be a groundbreaking move for both the player and Saudi Arabian football ended in frustration due to injuries.
For now, the Brazilian superstar faces a critical phase in his career—his recovery and next move will determine whether he can return to elite-level football or if his time at the top is nearing its end. As Al Hilal moves forward without him, Neymar must now focus on proving he can still be one of football’s biggest stars.