Neymar’s move from Al-Hilal to Brazilian club Santos means the Saudi Pro League has lost one of its most prominent players.
The Brazilian forward was one of the big names to join Saudi clubs in 2023, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad. However, unlike the other two, Neymar struggled with injuries, limiting his impact after his €90 million ($94 million) transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. He only played seven games before Al-Hilal released him this week by mutual consent.
Experts believe his departure won’t significantly affect the Saudi league’s international reputation as long as other star players stay.
“Neymar’s departure does not damage the brand. If the other stars start leaving, then it would be different, but that doesn’t seem likely,” said Sasi Kumar, a former Singapore international and founder of the sports investment company 28 Ventures based in Spain.
“He went there, got injured, and the timing was unfortunate. I’m sure Al-Hilal and other clubs will continue to make signings, as their ambitions remain strong.”
Once considered one of the world’s top players, Neymar spent much of his time in Saudi Arabia recovering from an ACL injury he suffered while playing for Brazil in October 2023.
“He didn’t make a big impression but could never show his real quality because of the injuries,” said Roel Coumans, a former assistant coach with Saudi Arabia and head coach at three Saudi clubs. “It was bad luck, as he was a player that suited Al-Hilal’s attacking style and was a joy to watch.”
Coumans agreed with Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus, who said on Monday that the league leader and defending champion would not struggle without Neymar.
“They are still a massive team in Asia whether Neymar is there or not,” Coumans said.
Al-Hilal fans are disappointed to see the 32-year-old Brazilian leave, but Riyadh-based supporter Ayman Al-Hotawi said ending the contract was the right decision for everyone involved.
“Hilal is a big club that can’t be patient with a player who can’t perform at the level he was known for,” Al-Hotawi said. “It is a strong sign that the league is no easy ride.”
There has been speculation that Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah could replace Neymar at Al-Hilal before the club competes in the Club World Cup in the United States in June. The club has not made any official comment.
“(Al-Hilal) have big ambitions and want world-class stars, and they need to do so if they want to become a top five or six league in the world,” Kumar said.
Meanwhile, Neymar is expected to get a warm reception at Santos, his boyhood club, where he won six titles before joining Barcelona in 2013.
