Neymar departs Al Hilal after injury-plagued spell

Neymar’s challenging stint in Saudi Arabia has come to an end as Al Hilal announced on Monday that they had mutually agreed to terminate the Brazilian forward’s contract.

Neymar, who initially joined the club in August 2023 on a lucrative two-year deal worth an estimated €150 million annually, had around seven months remaining on his contract.

The 32-year-old arrived at Al-Hilal with ambitions of creating a new chapter in his career but faced significant setbacks. In October 2023, he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament while representing Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.

Despite making a return to action last October, his second game back was marred by a reported hamstring issue. His time in Saudi Arabia was limited to just seven appearances, with only two coming this season.

"The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career at Al-Hilal, and wish the player success in his career," Al Hilal said.

Shortly after his move to Saudi Arabia, he surpassed Pele to become Brazil’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer with 78 goals. However, Neymar has not represented Brazil since his knee injury in late 2023.

The forward is now heavily linked with a return to Santos, the club where his career began.