Neymar comeback claims quashed as Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus confirms Brazil superstar won't return to pitch until new year

Neymar is set for an extended spell on the sidelines as Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus confirmed that the Brazilian won't return until the new year.

Neymar damaged his knee in October 2023

Is back on the training pitch following recovery

Still, a long way to go to return to competitive action

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WHAT HAPPENED?

The 32-year-old ruptured his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a World Cup qualifying match in October, which led to immediate surgery. Since then, Neymar has been on the road to recovery, but Al-Hilal fans will have to wait until at least January 2025 to see the forward back on the pitch.

WHAT JORGE JESUS SAID

The Brazilian has often posted videos and pictures of him sweating it out on the training pitch or inside the gym which led many to believe that he is nearing full fitness. However, Jesus was quick to manage expectations and informed: "Neymar is a very important player, not just for Al-Hilal but for the league as a whole. However, I can't specify an exact date for his return. We will assess his condition again in January."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

As Neymar recovers, Al-Hilal have had to make necessary adjustments to their squad. Under the Saudi Pro League regulations, teams are allowed to register a maximum of eight foreign players over the age of 21 for the season. Given Neymar's long-term injury, the club opted to replace him on the roster with new signing Marcos Leonardo from Benfica. However, Neymar has been included in Al-Hilal's AFC Champions League squad for 2024-25.

DID YOU KNOW?

With only one goal in five appearances, Neymar’s output has been underwhelming in Saudi Arabia. However, there is optimism among fans and the team management that the Brazilian star will regain his form and fitness, bringing the flair and creativity that made him a household name worldwide. Hence, all transfer rumours, including a move to Inter Miami to reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, were quickly shot down.

WHAT NEXT FOR AL-HILAL?

Al-Hilal have had little trouble navigating the challenges in the Saudi Pro League as they walked away with the 2023-24 league title and have got off to a flying start in the new campaign winning their first four matches. They will return to action on Saturday against Al Kholood in their next domestic top-flight fixture.