Neymar sends optimistic message as he heads back to Brazil

Neymar’s time in Saudi Arabia has not gone to plan. Arriving on a deal worth around $100 million from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023, the Brazilian forward picked up a serious knee injury on international duty just months later.

One year on, he has still only made seven competitive appearances for Al Hilal. But he posted an optimistic message on social media in his final training session before the festivities.

“Good vibes in the last training session before Christmas. Few days but it’s good to rest the mind, see family and friends,” adding emojis of a red heart and a Brazil flag.

The Saudi Pro League has a winter break, meaning that Neymar’s Al Hilal are not back in action until January 7. He has a clear two weeks before taking on Al Ittihad in the quarter-finals of the King Cup of Champions.

Could Neymar leave Al Hilal this winter?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained in October 2023 has limited Neymar’s appearances in Saudi to just a handful of outings. He has suffered a series of setbacks in his recovery, sparking suggestions that Al Hilal could look to cut their losses on the player. Not only does he command an enormous salary but he also takes up one of the team’s international player slots.

There has been talk of a move to Inter Miami, where he could reunited with the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. A return to Brazil has also been cited as a potential landing spot, although a significant pay cut would be required to make it feasible.

Botafogo president Durcesio Mello spoke about Neymar’s talent recently, but admitted that his questionable fitness record would dissuade him from making a move for the Brazilian.

Mello said: “God forbid. Neymar is one of the greatest players I’ve ever seen play, he’s at the same level as Messi and much better than Cristiano Ronaldo, but he ruined his career, which culminated in this injury that lasted a little over a year, and now he’s injured again.”

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