“We Were Optimistic” – Before Signing Neymar, Al Hilal Negotiated With Cristiano Ronaldo but Were Forced to Step Back as Al Nassr Pounced Upon

It has almost been 11 months since Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr. Despite a fair share of ups and downs, the relationship between the Portuguese superstar and the Riyadh side has been quite admirable. But in a surprising revelation, CR7’s partnership was meant to be with Al Hilal, who was interested in him before signing Neymar Jr. So, what stopped Al Hilal from signing the mighty Ronaldo?

Meanwhile, the season for Neymar ended prematurely after he suffered a tear-jerking injury during the international break.

Al Hilal first intended to sign Cristiano Ronaldo

Today, the soccer fraternity is witnessing Cristiano Ronaldo with Al Nassr and Neymar Jr. with Al Hilal. While fans from both sides are enjoying the presence of their respective stars, what if we told you that things were meant to be much different? As shocking as it may sound, No. 7 was implied to wear the blue jersey instead of the yellow one.

Apparently, this comes from the mouth of Fahad bin Nafel, the president of Al Hilal. In an interview, he was asked if Al Hilal had negotiated with Ronaldo, to which he gave a big “yes.” After that, he explained why Al-Za’eem couldn’t move forward with the deal. “The Arbitration Center forbade registering new players. We were optimistic, but we respected their decisions,” he said.

When again asked how likely there was a chance for the deal to happen, Mr. Fahad replied, “Yes, otherwise, Al Hilal is pretty capable of negotiating with the best players in the world.”

Indeed, this is quite a huge claim from the president himself. Certainly, Al Hilal fans would have fancied adding the 38-year-old to their roster. However, fate wanted Ronaldo to go to the other part of Riyadh, which eventually drove Al Hilal toward bringing Neymar. However, for Neymar, he suffered a season-ending injury.

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The 2023 season is over for Neymar Jr

Neymar appears to be suffering the consequences of his previous injuries, as he once again endured a knee injury. During Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, he had to leave the field in the first half. The Brazilian star was subsequently stretchered off the field, his face hidden by his hands, and later left the stadium with crutches.

After multiple checkups, it was found that the player had been ruled out of action for over nine months. This automatically ends his season with Al Hilal. He will soon go for surgery. Jorge Jesus’ side, on the other hand, is looking to fill their star’s empty shoes. It remains to be seen who they bring in as Neymar’s replacement.

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