Neymar Leaves Al Hilal, Forgoes $65M Salary to Embrace Santos Once Again
Neymar has mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal, following a challenging stint marred by injuries.
The 32-year-old Brazilian forward joined Al-Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for approximately €90 million but managed only seven appearances due to a severe knee injury sustained during a World Cup qualifier in October 2023.
Reports indicate that Neymar is set to return to his boyhood club, Santos FC, in Brazil. His potential return is seen as a significant boost for Santos, who have recently been promoted back to the Brazilian Serie A.
Neymar’s comeback is anticipated to enhance the club’s competitiveness in domestic and continental competitions.
This move could have broader implications in the football world. Al-Hilal may seek a high-profile replacement for Neymar, with speculation suggesting they could target players like Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. Salah’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire at the end of the current season, making him a potential target for the Saudi club.