Neymar Jr.’s fitness struggles remain an issue of concern, with the Brazilian star, who was once regarded as one of the best players in the world, gradually losing relevance.
The 32-year-old featured only five times for Al Hilal in the 2023-2024 season, following his high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League side, having been sidelined for several months due to an acute cruciate ligament injury.
Following his recovery, after several months of the sidelines, he suffered another setback where he was forced off the pitch recently during the AFC Champions League match against Iran’s Esteghlal due to discomfort in the back of his left thigh and is expected to be out for about three weeks.
With this recurring issue, his future remains uncertain with the club, leaving room for speculations of a potential January transfer exit.
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Brazilians are often known for returning to their home clubs after years of playing abroad, and a move back to Brazil would not be far-fetched for the former Barcelona star, who rose to prominence in the Brazilian Serie A with Santos.
However, one of Brazil’s top clubs, Palmeiras, has distanced itself from Neymar, with it’s president Leila Pereira dismissing rumours linking the 32-year-old forward to the team, saying, ”This club isn’t a medical department,” according to Fabrizio Romano on X.
What next for Neymar?
Neymar’s talent is undeniable when he is fit. However, his time with Al Hilal appears to be coming to an end.
With the club already at its maximum foreign player quota for domestic competitions, parting ways with the injury-prone Brazilian may not be a Herculean task.
However, still at 32, Neymar still has a lot to offer; hopefully, if he can stay fit, he could still attract interest from top clubs around the world.
In fact, a former Arsenal legend admitted he would love to see the ex-Santos forward at the club, and it would, indeed be interesting to see the Brazilian icon don the Gunners jersey.
