Neymar comeback claims quashed as Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus confirms Brazil superstar won’t return to pitch until new year

The 32-year-old ruptured his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a World Cup qualifying match in October 2023, which led to immediate surgery. Since then, Neymar has been on the road to recovery, but Al-Hilal fans will have to wait until at least January 2025 to see the forward back on the pitch.

• AFP

  WHAT JORGE JESUS SAID

  The Brazilian has often posted videos and pictures of him sweating it out on the training pitch or inside the gym in the last few weeks, which led to claims his return was imminent. However, Jesus has come out to set the record straight, telling reporters: “Neymar is a very important player, not just for Al-Hilal but for the league as a whole. However, I can’t specify an exact date for his return. We will assess his condition again in January.”

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    As Neymar recovers, Al-Hilal have had to make necessary adjustments to their squad. Under the Saudi Pro League regulations, teams are allowed to register a maximum of eight foreign players over the age of 21 for the season. Given Neymar’s long-term injury, the club opted to replace him on the roster with new signing Marcos Leonardo from Benfica. However, Neymar has been included in Al-Hilal’s AFC Champions League squad for 2024-25.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    With only one goal in five appearances, Neymar’s output has been underwhelming in Saudi Arabia so far. However, there is optimism among fans and the team management that the Brazilian star will regain his form and fitness, bringing the flair and creativity that made him a household name worldwide. Hence, all summer transfer rumours, including a move to Inter Miami to reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, were quickly shot down.

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      WHAT NEXT FOR AL-HILAL?

      Al-Hilal have had little trouble navigating the challenges of the Saudi Pro League without Neymar as they walked away with the 2023-24 league title and have got off to a flying start in the new campaign, winning their first four matches. They will return to action on Saturday against Al Kholood in their next domestic top-flight fixture.