The 2024 AFC Champions League appears to be in full swing. While some exciting fixtures are lined up ahead of Matchday 3, all eyes will be on Al Hilal, who is set to face Al Ain in an enthralling matchup. Both teams will be seeking an emphatic win in what is anticipated to be a promising encounter. With just hours until kick-off, the question remains whether star player Neymar will play tonight for Al Hilal.

The Brazilian superstar, who joined the Blue Waves in the summer of 2023 from Paris Saint-Germain, managed to make just five appearances before rupturing his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The unfortunate tear-jerking injury came while the 32-year-old was in action for his international side, playing the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Since then, the Brazilian has been involved in various recovery methods after a successful surgery took place.

Now, with the new season having already kicked off, all eyes were on the former FC Barcelona superstar’s return date. Well, guess what, the moment everyone had been waiting for is finally here! Neymar Jr. will play tonight for Al Hilal. The No. 10 has traveled with Jorge Jesus and Co. for the AFC Champions League group stage clash against Al Ain at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium and is available for selection.

Although head coach Jorge Jesus hasn’t confirmed whether Neymar will play tonight, expectations remain to at least make an appearance for a few minutes. Even his marketing company NR Sports further shared the sentiment in a statement on Saturday. “Though there’s no final decision for his return, the number 10 will be able to play on Monday to carry on with his remarkable trajectory.”

It’s true that Neymar had made a return to training back in July. Though that significantly fueled the expectations of many to see in the 2024 Copa America action with Brazil, he still wouldn’t have made his way to the US to represent his nation. While he is able to play for Al Hilal in the AFC Champions League, the same cannot be said in the Saudi Pro League.

The attacker would have to wait until January to make his impending return to domestic action. In the meantime, he has something for his beloved fans.

Neymar sends a heartfelt message ahead of his Al Hilal

The Al Hilal superstar certainly looks eager to kick the ball on the field but before he does, he has something to say. As compiled by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Neymar himself addressed his much-anticipated return to his ardent fanbase, stating, “Every day away from football it’s pain for me. I love football. It’s the thing I love the most in my life.”

Further expressing the emotion on his behalf was his marketing team stating, “These were days of pain, anguish, and a lot of longing for football, 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.” Yes, indeed it is.