Picture Credit: X

Picture Credit: X

Star Brazilian football Neymar Jr on Monday, January 27 parted ways with Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League champions after agreeing by a mutual consent. However, this came as a big shock, leaving the internet buzzing of the Brazilian forward’s sudden move, the 32-year-old is all set to make his return to his childhood club, Santos.

It is to be noted that Neymar had a disappointing run with the Saudi club, despite being the all-time top-scorer for his national side. During his time in Saudi Arabia, Neymar faced significant setbacks, primiraly due to an ACL injury he sustained during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. Since then he has struggled to get back to his best, thus ending his stint with the club, making only seven apperances in 17 months.

It is the time to come back, Neymar: Santos President Marcelo Teixeira

With the future of Neymar Jr still undecided, the Santos Club President Marcelo Teixeira took to social media, calling out to the veteran footballer to return to his boyhood club. “It is the time (to come back), Neymar. It is time for you to come back to your people. To our home, to the club in our hearts," Teixeira said in his social media channels.

“Welcome, our boy Ney! A boy of Vila (Belmiro, Santos’ stadium). Come back to be happy again with the white and black shirt. The Santos nation awaits you with open arms,” he added. However, Neymar’s representative, Day Franco informed that the player had no immediate statement, but according to reports in the Brazilian media, the footballer is set to return to his home country this week.

Neymar pens heartfelt note for Al Hilal after contract termination

Although it was a bizarre end for the 32-year-old as he has played only seven games for the Al-Hilal after moving from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported fee of USD 98 million in August 2023. “To everyone at Al Hilal, to the fans, Thank you !! I gave everything to play and I wish we enjoyed better times on the pitch together .. To Saudi, thank you for giving me and my family a new home and new experiences. I now know the real Saudi and have friends for life. I always felt your love and passion for the game,” he said.

“I will be following your journey ahead as a club and a country towards 2034. Your future will be incredible, special things are happening. And I will always support you !!!" he continued.