Neymar’s Departure from Al Hilal Confirmed: Brazilian Star Set for Santos Return
After weeks of speculation, Neymar’s departure from Al Hilal has been officially confirmed, marking the end of a short and tumultuous stint for the Brazilian superstar in Saudi Arabia. The club released a statement announcing the termination of Neymar’s contract, and reports from Spanish outlet Marca revealed that the deal was valued at €62 million. Neymar, who joined Al Hilal in 2023 for a staggering €90 million transfer fee, is now a free agent, poised to return to his boyhood club Santos.
Neymar’s Underwhelming Spell at Al Hilal
Neymar’s tenure at Al Hilal will not be remembered fondly, as injuries and limited appearances defined his time in the Middle East. Over the span of a year and a half, he played only seven matches, clocking a total of 428 minutes on the pitch. Despite the lack of significant contributions, the Brazilian forward made a fortune during his time at the Saudi club.
This season, he featured in just two matches for Al Hilal, both in the AFC Champions League. His last appearance came in a 3-0 victory over Esteghlal, where he played only 29 minutes before sustaining a hamstring injury that sidelined him. Earlier in his time with the club, Neymar suffered an ACL tear, which further hindered his ability to make an impact.
A Return to His Roots
Reports from Globo, a leading Brazilian media outlet, indicate that he is now set to rejoin Santos, the club where he first rose to prominence as one of the most exciting young talents in world football. His initial stint at Santos launched his illustrious career, leading to his high-profile move to Barcelona in 2013 for €88 million, a transfer that included significant bonuses for the Brazilian club.

Now, 12 years later, he appears ready to don the Santos jersey once again, likely bringing his career full circle. Sources suggest that the Brazilian forward will initially sign a short-term contract until the end of the season. Beyond that, his future options could include a return to European football, a move to Major League Soccer (MLS), or even another stint in Saudi Arabia.
Negotiations and Contract Termination
Neymar’s agent and father played a pivotal role in securing the terms of his contract termination with Al Hilal. The Saudi club agreed to pay the player all the remaining amounts stipulated in his contract without protracted negotiations. This amicable resolution has paved the way for his move back to Brazil, where Santos is reportedly preparing an elaborate presentation to welcome him home.
Al Hilal and Neymar Jr. have agreed to terminate the player’s contract by mutual consent.
Thank you and good luck,Neymar pic.twitter.com/9edCVWBGop
— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) January 27, 2025
According to reports, he is expected to undergo medical examinations in the coming days. Once cleared, he will officially sign his contract with Santos. The club is planning a grand unveiling for their returning star, with speculation suggesting that the event could take place by the end of January or in early February.
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The Legacy of Neymar’s Transfers
Neymar’s career has been marked by record-breaking transfers and high expectations. His 2017 move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for €222 million remains the most expensive transfer in football history. Following a successful spell at PSG, where he won numerous domestic titles, Neymar’s decision to join Al Hilal was seen as a bold move that symbolized the growing allure of Saudi football.
However, his time in Saudi Arabia fell short of expectations. Despite arriving as one of the marquee signings aimed at elevating the profile of the Saudi Pro League, his injuries and limited appearances meant he couldn’t leave a lasting legacy at Al Hilal.
Santos’ Excitement for Neymar’s Return
For Santos, his return represents more than just a high-profile signing; it is a homecoming for one of their most beloved players. Neymar’s rise at Santos was meteoric, as he dazzled fans with his skill, creativity, and flair. His performances not only brought success to the club but also cemented his status as a global footballing icon.
The anticipation surrounding his return is palpable, with Santos fans eager to see their prodigal son back in action. The club is working diligently to ensure that his unveiling is a memorable event. Beyond the immediate excitement, his return could also provide a significant boost to Brazilian football, drawing attention to the domestic league and inspiring a new generation of players.
What’s Next for Neymar?
While Neymar’s initial focus will be on contributing to Santos, his long-term future remains uncertain. The player has expressed interest in exploring various options, including a potential return to Europe or a move to the MLS. Additionally, he has spoken positively about his experience in Riyadh, leaving the door open for a possible return to Saudi Arabia in the future.
For now, his priority will be to regain full fitness and rediscover the form that made him one of the most celebrated players of his generation. His return to Santos offers a unique opportunity to rewrite the final chapter of his career, reconnect with his roots, and reignite the passion that has defined his journey in football.
A New Beginning
Neymar’s departure from Al Hilal marks the end of an unremarkable chapter in his career, but his return to Santos signals the start of an exciting new journey. As he prepares to rejoin the club that launched his career, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if he can recapture the magic that once made him a global phenomenon. With his immense talent and a renewed sense of purpose, Neymar’s return to Santos promises to be a story worth following.