Brazilian football star Neymar has parted ways with Saudi club Al Hilal after an 18-month stint filled with challenges. The club announced on Monday that they had “agreed to terminate the player’s contract by mutual consent.”
In a statement posted on social media, Al Hilal expressed gratitude toward the 32-year-old forward, saying, “The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al Hilal, and wish the player success in his career.”
Neymar joined Al Hilal in August 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, reportedly earning an annual salary of around $104 million. However, his time in Saudi Arabia was marred by injuries, limiting him to only seven appearances for the team.
Shortly after his high-profile move, Neymar suffered a major setback while representing Brazil in a World Cup qualifier in October 2023. He ruptured a cruciate ligament in his left knee, sidelining him for nearly a year. Although he briefly returned to action for Al Hilal in late 2024, a hamstring injury prevented him from regaining form.
The club’s coach, Jorge Jesus, recently addressed Neymar’s struggles, stating, “He can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately.”
Despite these challenges, Neymar remains focused on his future, specifically the 2026 World Cup. In an interview earlier this year, he said, “I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance and I will do everything I can to play in it.”
Reports suggest that Neymar has been approached by several clubs, including MLS teams in the United States.
However, a potential return to Santos, his boyhood club in Brazil, has garnered significant attention. This move could mark the final chapter of Neymar’s illustrious career, where he is remembered as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 127 matches.
