Neymar is poised to make his long-awaited return to action for Al-Hilal in the AFC Champions League Elite match next week after spending a year sidelined due to a serious knee injury.
On Saturday, his marketing company, NR Sports, announced that the Brazilian superstar’s passion for football and aspirations to compete in the next World Cup have motivated his comeback. While no definitive decision has been made regarding his return, the statement confirmed that Neymar is set to play in Monday’s match against Al-Ain from the United Arab Emirates.
Since signing with Al-Hilal in August 2023, Neymar’s time on the pitch has been limited to just five appearances. He underwent surgery after suffering a ruptured meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during international duty in October of the same year.
The statement from NR Sports reflected on Neymar’s difficult journey, stating, “These were days of pain, anguish, and a lot of longing for soccer, which were overcome with the help of family and friends, always present for our number 10. And all the fans around the world who gave him support on social media networks. The wait is over.”
In a heartfelt video shared on social media, the 32-year-old expressed his determination to return to form, stating, “Every time I get injured, I come back. But I don’t come back halfway,” as footage of his rehabilitation journey played in the background.
Neymar resumed training in July, but expectations for an immediate return were tempered by Al-Hilal’s head coach, Jorge Jesus, who has yet to confirm whether Neymar will take the field on Monday.
Eligible to participate in the AFC Champions League due to the absence of foreign player restrictions, Neymar’s return to the Saudi Pro League will be delayed until January. If fit, he could also rejoin Brazil’s national team for two rounds of South American World Cup qualifying scheduled for November.
Fans and teammates alike are eager to welcome Neymar back as he embarks on the next chapter of his illustrious career.
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