Al Hilal announced on Monday (the 28th) the termination of forward Neymar’s contract, which he had signed with the Saudi club in August 2023. The move clears the way for the player’s return to Santos, the club where he began his career and which is already in advanced talks to bring its idol home.
In an official statement, Al Hilal confirmed the termination and stressed that the decision was amicable:
“Al Hilal and Neymar have agreed to end their contractual relationship by mutual agreement. The club expresses its thanks and appreciation for what Neymar brought during his time at Al Hilal and wishes him success in his career.”
Neymar’s contract with Al Hilal ran until June of this year, but he had been negotiating an early exit, especially after a series of injuries that jeopardized his future at the club. One of those injuries kept him off the field for more than a year, and he was not even registered for the Saudi Pro League this season.
Neymar’s spell at the Saudi club was short and low-key. He played just seven games, with one goal and two assists. Signed for about 90 million euros (roughly $97 million at the time), Brazil’s No. 10 arrived at Al Hilal as a major star but saw his time there overshadowed by physical problems.
Now the focus turns to a possible return to Santos. The Peixe are in advanced talks with the player’s camp and were waiting for Neymar’s future in Saudi Arabia to be settled before moving forward with negotiations. The club and its fans are eager to once again have the player who defined an era and became one of the greatest idols in the club’s history.
The outcome promises to shake up the transfer market and rekindle Santos fans’ enthusiasm. If the return happens, Neymar could strengthen the squad at a crucial moment of the season, bringing the experience and skill that made him a global soccer reference.
