Neymar stunned the football world with his decision to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, opting for the lucrative Saudi Pro League over offers from Europe’s elite clubs. He followed a similar path as Cristiano Ronaldo, who also chose to play in the wealth-driven league around the same time.
However, his arrival in SPL didn’t go to plan as he suffered numerous injuries, limiting his game time for the club. Since his $90 million move to Al Hilal in August 2023, Neymar has played just seven games for the 19-time Saudi champions. He remains ineligible for domestic league matches as the club has already reached its quota of 10 foreign players, though he is available for continental competitions.
Speculation about Neymar’s future at Al Hilal has intensified in recent weeks, fueled by news of his four-to-six-week absence due to a thigh tendon injury. It was then suggested that the Brazilian star is contemplating terminating his contract with the Saudi club to facilitate a return to his boyhood club, Santos.
However, reports have now emerged that the Brazilian may well be heading to Barcelona.
Is Neymar ready to make sacrifices for Barcelona’s return?
Recent reports suggest that Neymar is eager to return to Camp Nou and rejoin Barcelona, reportedly willing to make significant sacrifices to facilitate the move. While the reasons behind the Brazilian forward’s determination remain unclear, speculation continues to grow about a potential reunion between Neymar and the Catalan giants.
Neymar, currently with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League under a contract until mid-2025, has significant flexibility for his next move as a free agent, according to his father, who avoided confirming any specific plans.
“Let’s wait and see what will happen and how Neymar will really feel. He will be free to decide. We have never been so free to decide where we are going and having a 32-year-old free in hand is a gift for any businessman,” Neymar’s father said in a podcast.
Considering Barcelona’s recent player acquisitions and transfers following Euro 2024, Neymar might struggle to integrate into the team’s core, which now features a younger and more dynamic lineup. This could pose challenges, as the Brazilian previously occupied pivotal forward roles during his prime years at the club. At 32 by the time he becomes a free agent, Neymar’s expertise and deep understanding of Barcelona’s playing philosophy could still make him an attractive option.
Should Neymar return to the squad, it could present challenges in terms of strategy and lineup adjustments. However, given his extensive experience, the Barcelona manager would likely seek to carve out a fitting role for him within the team.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
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