The Brazilian has barely played for Al Hilal since his $98 million move to Saudi Arabia, but he is still hoping for the 2026 World Cup.
As we enter the final six months of the deal, Neymar Jr.'s move is from Paris Saint-Germain to Al Hilal for $98 million has not yet proven fruitful for the Saudi club.
After eighteen months, the injury-stricken Brazilian has only played seven games for Al Hilal. Within months of arriving in Saudi Arabia, he suffered a serious tear to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while on international duty and was sidelined for a year. His return last November caused a hamstring injury, followed by abdominal complaints earlier this week. At this stage it seems increasingly unlikely that he will stay at Al Hilal beyond this season.
That has sparked renewed debate over his future and the prospect of a move to Inter Miami in the MLS. At Barcelona, Neymar formed one third of the famous 'MSN' trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. Now, ten years on from the treble-winning season, Neymar has revealed he would like a reunion.
Asked about the prospect of signing for Inter Miami, Neymar said: “It would of course be incredible to play with Messi and Suárez again. They are my friends. We still speak to each other. It would be interesting to revive the trio.”
He continued: “I am happy at Al Hilal, I am happy in Saudi Arabia. But who knows, football might be full of surprises.”
Will Neymar play in the 2026 World Cup?
Over the past eighteen months, Neymar has become the forgotten man of top football. As one of the most talented and famous players in the world, his continued absence has caused him to disappear from the minds of many fans.
However, it is fair to say that Brazil has not forgotten. The national team has struggled without Neymar and sits fifth in the 2026 World Cup qualifying list, having won just five of their first 12 matches. Head coach Dorival Júnior has confirmed there is still a place in the team for the aging superstar. Still just 32 years old, Neymar confirmed his sights are set on next year's tournament.
“Of course, for sure. I'm going to try, I want to be there. I knew this would be my last World Cup, my last chance. My last chance and I will do everything I can to be part of it.”
He would likely be a popular addition to the Brazilian squad, provided he can return to full fitness. He remains an icon for many of the newer generation of Brazilian players. Rodrygo Goes, who famously wore Brazil's number 10 jersey during Neymar's absence at last year's Copa America, insisted he was simply “keeping it warm” for Neymar.
Comments