Thu Jan 30 08:30:11 IST 2025: ## Neymar’s Short-Lived Saudi Arabian Stint Ends in Mutual Contract Termination
**RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA** – Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. has parted ways with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal after just eight months, the club announced Monday. The termination was by mutual consent, ending a high-profile transfer that saw the 32-year-old join for a reported €90 million ($98.5 million) in August 2023.
Neymar’s time in Saudi Arabia was plagued by injury. A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament sustained in October 2023 sidelined him until October 2024. Despite his return, he only managed two appearances before another injury kept him out of action. In total, he scored one goal and provided two assists in seven games for Al-Hilal.
“The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al-Hilal, and wish the player success in his career,” a club statement read.
Speculation now centers on a return to Neymar’s boyhood club, Santos, in Brazil. Brazilian media outlets are widely reporting an imminent agreement, potentially finalized as early as this week. Santos, recently promoted back to Brazil’s Serie A, would welcome back one of their most famous alumni. Neymar first debuted for Santos in 2009, leading them to Copa Libertadores glory in 2011.
Neymar, the world’s most expensive player following his 2017 transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, is also reportedly hinting at a potential revival of the famed “MSN” attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. His career includes Champions League and La Liga titles with Barcelona and multiple league titles with PSG. He remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer.
First Piper 