Does Neymar’s $54m penthouse purchase reveal his future plans?

Despite having made just seven competitive appearances since his $90 million move to Al Hilal last summer, Neymar Jr looks to have settled well in the Middle East.

The 32-year-old suffered another injury setback last week, picking up a hamstring injury in his second appearance back from a year-long anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. He is excepted to miss another month of action for the Saudi Pro League side.

Neymar’s Al Hilal are based in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, but he’s recently snapped up a luxurious new penthouse apartment in Dubai, in neighbouring United Arab Emirates.

The exclusive apartment block is a joint project between property agent Binghatti and supercar brand Bugatti, who are working on a vast luxury complex. in Riyadh.

The project features 171 Riviera Mansions and 11 Sky Mansion Penthouses, each of which is claimed to be “uniquely crafted with bespoke, curated layouts.” Neymar’s penthouse is though to include a private swimming pool, vast views of the city and even an internal lift for his array of supercars. The apartment is worth a reported $54 million.

What next for Neymar?

In recent months there has been much speculation that Neymar could be the next superstar to join the MLS, with Inter Miami frequently cited as a potential destination. The culture and climate in Miami certainly seems attractive for South Americans and Neymar could link up with Lionel Messi for a third time in his career.

But news of this huge property investment does suggest that Neymar believes that his future remains in the Middle East. In addition to his vast salary with Al Hilal, Neymar is also an ambassador for the Saudi bid to host the 2034 World Cup.

“The opportunity to play here and live in a country like this is very important for people. That’s why I always say that I was very well received here,” Neymar said.

“I’m very happy and I’m sure it will only get better. I’m sure other stars will come here. I believe that many will have the opportunity to come here, and I think that everyone should have the opportunity to experience what I have experienced here.”

In making the move to the Saudi Pro League, Neymar seemed to tacitly suggest that his time at the top level of European soccer was over. Still blessed with incredible talent, his fitness had become increasingly uncertain in recent years and he only once played more than 20 league matches in six years with Paris Saint-Germain.

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