It’s safe to say that Neymar’s spell with Al-Hilal is likely to come to an unfortunate conclusion due to Jorge Jesus’ unexpected comments on the Brazilian maestro. With regard to the latter, the Portuguese coach has made it clear that Neymar would not be registered for the second part of the Saudi Pro League and would only be eligible to play in the Asian Champions League. Meanwhile, Jorge Jesus’ comment that Neymar would “no longer play at the level we are used to” adds to the uncertainty of the Brazilian’s future at the club and the possibility of a move to MLS, given he is currently injured.
Jorge Jesus On Neymar’s Future
During the post-match presser of Al Hilal’s 9 – 0 victory over Al Fateh, manager Jorge Jesus stated that Neymar would not be eligible for the Saudi Pro League registration citing the ineligibility of Neymar for the said competition. Addressing the competition in the League, Jesus indicated, that the entire squad of Al Hilal was capable of doing well in Europe but probed that Neymar is currently out of shape and is not able to play at his old standards. Concerning the Brazilian, he still has a contract, but the players future is foggy and both the club management and Neymar himself will have to make decisions about it. Jesus said that in addition, Al Hilal has a vacancy for a player born in 2003 and later, which makes Neymar’s future in the club even more complicated.
Neymar’s Al-Hilal Nightmare
Since his €90 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Al-Hilal in August 2023, Neymar’s experience in Saudi Arabia has been filled with challenges. A significant knee ligament injury sustained during a World Cup qualifier in October has restricted him to only seven appearances and a single goal for the club. While his contract has an option for a 12-month extension, his difficulties both on and off the field indicate that a summer exit is quite probable, signaling the conclusion of a disappointing phase in his career.
