Neymar is already reportedly making plans for his exit from Al-Hilal, signaling his intention to return to his boyhood club at Santos ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The 31-year-old made a move to Saudi Arabia in August to join Al-Hilal and kick-start what was supposed to be a new chapter in his illustrious career. It was initially reported that the South American superstar had penned down a four-year contract with the Middle Eastern team.
However, recent reports state that this might not be the case. Instead, rumors have it that Neymar’s agreement with Al-Hilal is only for a period of two years. With clear indications that he does not intend to stay at the Saudi club for an extended period of time, this revelation has fueled speculation about his commitment to the Saudi League in the long run.
🚨 Having just arrived in Saudi Arabia, Neymar does not intend to stay forever and already has a very clear idea of his future!
The 31-year old wants to return to Brazil to his old club Santos before the 2026 World Cup. 🇧🇷🔙
(Source: Ademir Quintino) pic.twitter.com/LiMpERKiVB
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 26, 2023
Brazilian journalist Ademir Quintino has been at the forefront of these revelations. Quintino stated, “During conversations with friends of Neymar Senior and Neymar Junior, I received the information that they did not sign a four-year contract with the Saudis but rather a two-year contract so he can return (to Santos) a year before the World Cup”.
He further added, “Neymar approached Santos and asked to return. I have friends in common with Neymar, whom I will not name, but he has a very strong desire to return to Santos”.
While Neymar has only made a few appearances for Al-Hilal and has yet to score a goal for the team, his desire to return to Santos and, consequently, the Brazilian league raises the possibility that his soccer career may have reached a conclusion.
Neymar takes to social media to address the managerial controversy
After a dispute in the locker room, reports surfaced that Neymar wanted Al Hilal to get rid of manager, Jorge Jesus. However, the former PSG forward has since vehemently refuted these claims on social media.
The incident started with an altercation between Jesus and Neymar in the locker room. Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo reported that the manager issued Neymar a severe warning for what he perceived as a subpar performance. Neymar allegedly responded by requesting that the club fire Jesus as a result of their disagreement.
🚨 Neymar slams ‘lies’ after claims he tried to get Al Hilal manager, Jorge Jesus, sacked following dressing room fight pic.twitter.com/hB1zAHBmHg
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) September 26, 2023
Additionally, the report stated that the club’s directors engaged in discussions with Jesus’s agent and issued a warning that they might terminate the coach’s contract if Al Hilal’s performance did not improve soon.
However, Neymar took to social media platforms to clear the air, vehemently refuting the accusations and terming them as “lies”. He urged his fans and followers in a message not to believe such rumors and he urged media outlets with large audiences to report with responsibility.
Following a draw with Navbahor Namangan in the AFC Champions League, which ended 1-1, manager Jesus launched into an extraordinary rant that sparked the controversy. Jesus expressed his displeasure with the referee’s management of the game in his post-match remarks, where he also criticized the opposing team for what he saw as time-wasting tactics and unsportsmanlike conduct.