The 2023 season takes a heartbreaking turn for Neymar Jr. The Brazilian superstar’s recent knee injury during Uruguay’s 2-0 loss spells an early end to his season, leaving not just him but his club, Al Hilal, in a lurch without their key player. But the Saudi Arabian side is wasting no time in seeking replacements, and they have their sights set on Neymar’s former teammates, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe.

Despite previous rejections by both Messi and Mbappe, Al Hilal remains determined to secure the services of one of these superstars.

Al Hilal still dreaming of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe amidst Neymar injury

This summer, Al Hilal was on a mission to get a marquee signing that would simply become the face of their team. Although the club wanted to sign Lionel Messi first, the Argentinian rejected their advances. Subsequently, Kylian Mbappe was also offered a mammoth contract to join the Middle Eastern side. Sadly, they faced another rejection. Ultimately, Al Hilal succeeded in acquiring Neymar as their star forward.

However, fast-forward to today, the Brazilian’s debut season in Riyadh has been cut short due to a year-ending injury. This has prompted Jorge Jesus to explore alternative options. In fact, as per the sources, Al Hilal are again reviving their interest in the signatures of either Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe in order to replace their injured No. 10.

Both star’s names are on the table and might be approached during the winter transfer window. While Messi is available for the next four months following Inter Miami’s exit from the MLS playoffs, Mbappe remains with PSG. Be that as it may, only time will tell if Al Hilal will further take their proposals to both players. Meanwhile, let’s dive deeper to learn more about Neymar’s injury.

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A closer look at Neymar’s tearful injury

Neymar left the pitch in tears during the defeat against Uruguay as he suffered a ruptured ACL. Just a month ago, the player returned to the field after a long injury layoff. However, a recent announcement from the Brazil Football Confederation states that the player will be sidelined for an undetermined period. Neymar is set to undergo surgery later this year and will then spend the upcoming months in rehabilitation.

According to Brazil’s medical staff, it is anticipated that Neymar can make a full recovery in the next eight months. Certainly, this would position him to be ready for the 2024 Copa América. Let’s see how quickly he recovers from this injury.

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