Life comes at you pretty fast, doesn’t it? On October 21, Neymar Jr. made his much-anticipated return to Al Hilal after a year-long injury hiatus. Then, on November 4, the Brazilian superstar started the game but picked up a knock within the first half-hour. Fast forward to today, and he now faces the risk of having his contract terminated, especially after his recent $26 million transfer, which has reignited hopes of a reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
Since his arrival in the summer of August 2023, Neymar has featured in just 7 games for Al Hilal, managing to score a goal and provide 3 assists. However, the current situation raises the possibility of his contract being terminated as soon as January. But why exactly? The very man who they gave a contract worth $400 million until 2025 is now suddenly on their alleged list.
In Al Hilal’s defense, they have been losing patience. First, the winger suffered a meniscus tear and ACL rupture in his left knee during a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier against Uruguay last year. After successful surgery, he was sidelined for the entire season, prompting the club to deregister him. The 32-year-old was also excluded from the 2024-25 season roster, as the club already had eight fit foreign players over 21.
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Shortly after Neymar recovered, both he and the club were waiting until January 2025 to update the registration list. That explains why he hasn’t been competing in the league and the King’s Cup since mid-season, rather made a return in the AFC Champions League. However, just as quickly as he made his return, the former Barcelona star played only 42 minutes before being forced off with an injury in their recent AFC Champions League match against Esteghlal.
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This only calls for Al Hilal to move on from Neymar with a heavy heart, but that also has several complications. While it remains to be seen what Al Hilal’s final call comes out to be regarding Neymar, let’s hear what the Miami saga is all about.
Already on the edge with Al Hilal, is Neymar flirting with Inter Miami over the latest purchase?
Reports suggest that Neymar has spent over $26 million on a piece of waterfront land in Miami, located in the exclusive, gated community of Bal Harbour. The property spans 0.63 acres and offers 150 feet of frontage along the Intracoastal Waterway. The purchase includes approved plans for a 13,000-square-foot residence designed by London-based Elicyon. While the property was last listed at $28.5 million, Neymar reportedly secured a reduced price. As the land is undeveloped, the soccer star will need to build the residence to his specifications.
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This purchase raises speculation that Neymar may be preparing to leave Saudi Arabia, especially with his contract at Al Hilal set to expire in the summer of 2025. Neymar had previously revealed that Lionel Messi personally urged him to consider a move to MLS, saying, “I spoke with Lionel Messi, and he asked me to come to Inter Miami.” The 32-year-old winger expressed his enthusiasm for the idea, stating, “I hope we can play together again.”
Will he? That’s something time will tell. In the meantime, share your thoughts on this in the comments.
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Will Neymar's Miami move reignite his career, or is it just another flashy distraction?
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Will Neymar's Miami move reignite his career, or is it just another flashy distraction?
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