Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal announced on Saturday that Brazilian superstar Neymar will make his long-awaited return to the squad for their AFC Champions League Elite match next week.
Al Hilal confirmed Neymar’s comeback, with the 32-year-old declaring, “I know you’re anxious. I am too. On October 21st, I’m back.”
The Brazilian forward has been sidelined for over a year due to injury but is now poised to face Al-Ain of the United Arab Emirates on Monday.
Motivated by World Cup Ambitions
According to his marketing company NR Sports, Neymar’s love for soccer and his desire to play in the next World Cup have driven his return to action.
Neymar signed for the Riyadh team in August 2023 and played just five games when he underwent surgery after rupturing his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee while on international duty in October last year.
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“These were days of pain, anguish, and a lot of longing for soccer, which were overcome with the help of family and friends, always present for our number 10. And all the fans around the world who gave him all support in social media networks,” the statement added. “The wait is over.”
A social media post also published on Saturday showed the 32-year-old speaking about his recovery and displayed footage of his efforts to come back.
“Every time I get injured, I come back. But I don’t come back halfway,” a tearful Neymar said in a video.
Neymar returned to training in July, but in September his club coach Jorge Jesus dampened expectations of an immediate comeback.
The Portuguese coach did not confirm Neymar will play on Monday.
Neymar, whose two-year contract ends next August, is eligible to appear in AFC Champions League Elite matches as the continental competition has no restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed.
That is not the case in the Saudi Pro League, which will see him back only in January.
Neymar’s comeback is expected to boost Al Hilal’s chances in the AFC Champions League, with fans eagerly anticipating his return to the pitch.
