With his time at Al Hilal reportedly coming to an end, Neymar's next move could see him return to his roots.
Neymar's time in the Saudi Pro League appears to be coming to an end as Al Hilal move closer to parting ways with the injury-hit star.
The Brazilian was a huge signing of $98 million when he joined from Paris Saint-Germain 18 months ago, but has barely featured due to a series of injuries. Neymar's current contract expires this summer and with no real motivation on either side to extend it, he could leave the club this month.
There is real interest from teams in the MLS, but Brazilian giants Santos appear to be Neymar's most likely destination. A loan deal would allow Neymar to return to Brazil and represent his former club. This week, two of Neymar's international teammates spoke out in support of the move.
Real Madrid star Vinícius Junior, who is being cited by many as Neymar's long-term replacement for the national team, made his thoughts clear: “For Brazil it is important to have a player like Ney, especially at Santos, who are is at home. where he played so many games.”
“Ney is our idol and we hope he can play again as soon as possible,” Vinícius added. “May he be able to make the best decision for him and his family in peace.”
That sentiment was echoed by Barcelona's Raphinha, who told TNT Sports Brasil: “I think his return to compete at a high level, and in my opinion the Brazilian competition is at a high level, will not only be good for him, but for everyone.” .”
“I think a player like him can never stand still, can't be active,” Raphinha continued, looking back on Neymar's injuries in recent years. “What happens at his club could prevent him from returning to his physical best.”
Although Neymar's return to Santos has not yet been confirmed, there is a clear desire to make it happen. The only sticking point will be the 32-year-old's huge salary, reportedly around $108 million a year in Saudi Arabia. That will be prohibitively expensive for Santos, and virtually every other team in the world, but Neymar's team will work to find a compromise that suits all parties.
Get your game on! Whether you like NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class football goals or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Comments