Former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker Neymar has embarked on a new chapter in his career by signing a two-year contract with Saudi Arabian football club Al-Hilal. The 31-year-old Brazilian star expressed his excitement about “new challenges and opportunities in new places,” becoming the latest high-profile player to join the ranks of clubs in the oil-rich kingdom.
Following his six-year stint at PSG, Neymar follows in the footsteps of renowned players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mane, who have all ventured to the Middle East.
Neymar’s statement, released by the Saudi Pro League, underscored his ambitions: “I have achieved a lot in Europe and enjoyed special moments, but I have always aspired to be a global player and challenge myself with fresh experiences and opportunities in different locations.”
Demonstrating his commitment to this new venture, Neymar stated, “I aim to create new sporting history, and the Saudi Pro League boasts remarkable energy and quality players at this juncture.”
Al-Hilal, revered as the premier club in Asia, offered Neymar an enticing platform to excel. He affirmed, “Al-Hilal is a powerhouse club with passionate fans, and it stands as the best in Asia. This decision feels right for me, aligned with the right time and the right club. I have a passion for winning and scoring goals, and I intend to continue that journey in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal.”
Neymar’s journey to Al-Hilal follows his move from Barcelona to PSG in 2017, marked by a world-record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($242 million). While his PSG tenure included notable achievements like five Ligue 1 titles and a Champions League final appearance, his time at the club was punctuated by injury setbacks.
Amassing 118 goals in 173 matches for PSG, Neymar’s remarkable contributions were at times overshadowed by his injuries, impacting his consistency. Despite playing a pivotal role in leading the club to the 2020 Champions League final, he found himself sidelined during crucial encounters.
Neymar’s transition to Al-Hilal is reported to come with significant financial gains, with an estimated salary of “100 million euros a season.”
As PSG bids adieu to Neymar, club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi conveyed gratitude, stating, “I will always remember the day he arrived at Paris Saint-Germain… Neymar will forever remain an integral part of our history.”
Al-Hilal, under the guidance of coach Jorge Jesus, is renowned within Saudi Arabia and boasts a roster of international players drawn to the Middle East by promising opportunities.
Neymar’s move to Al-Hilal serves as a testament to his readiness to embrace uncharted territories and confront fresh challenges, reflecting his enduring pursuit of excellence in the realm of football.
