Neymar has only played seven games in the last year and a half. © APA/afp / -

Contract terminated: What happens to Neymar?

Star striker Neymar and the Saudi Arabian football club Al-Hilal have finally ended their collaboration. The contract of the soon-to-be 33-year-old Brazilian was terminated "by mutual agreement," the club announced.

28 January 2025

From: dpa

A return of the former world star to his homeland is becoming increasingly likely. FC Santos, for whom Neymar played until 2013, is said to be interested in a return of the 128-time Brazilian international, who, according to media reports, is not opposed to the idea himself.

Neymar was actually under contract with Al-Hilal until the summer, but he has not played a role in coach Jorge Jesus' team for some time. The tricky attacker, who critics accuse of a penchant for unnecessary tricks and provocations, has only played seven times for the club and scored one goal since moving to Saudi Arabia in August 2023.

Neymar has left Al-Hilal. © APA/afp / ADEL AL-NAIMI

Neymar moved from Paris Saint-Germain to the Saudi Arabian league for a transfer fee of 90 million euros. After tearing his cruciate ligament while playing for the national team in October 2023, he was forced to take a one-year break. During his comeback in October last year and in November, Neymar made two short appearances before thigh problems stopped him.

The most expensive footballer in the world

According to Brazilian media, clubs from the upcoming World Cup co-host country USA are also said to be interested in signing the offensive player, who still holds the record for the highest transfer fee in football: in 2017, he moved from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain for 222 million euros.