In the middle of January, Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus dropped a bomb shell If NeymarThe status of the Saudi club. Jesus revealed that the Brazilian forward would Not registered for the Saudi Pro League season and could only play in Asian champion league. But what really took hold of the headlines was Jesus’ stinging assessment of Neymar’s physical conditionwhich indicates that he could no longer perform at the expected level.
“Neymar will not be registered in the team for the championship. He can participate in the Asian Champions League. Saudi -League is one of the best leagues in the world. All Al-Hilal players can play for all clubs in Europe. When he was to return he was injured again“ Jesus stated in an interview on January 16.
The Portuguese coach acknowledged Neymar’s talent but expressed concern about his ability to handle the physical demands of elite football. “He is a player who leaves no doubt, a world -class player. But the truth is to physically, Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Unfortunately, things have become difficult for him. “
For Neymar, His short-lived stint on al-hilal was injured by injuries. After signing for the Saudi giants in the summer of 2023 for 90 million eurosBrazilian just did Seven performancesPoints only once and record three assists. His fighters worsened by one Brutured ACL and injured Meniscus was hit by international service with Brazil in November 2023Keep him out until October 2024.
But when he returned, he suffered another setback – a hamstring toes – and laid him side leaders once again. His Contract with al-Hilal was finally completed by mutual consentpaves the way to return to his boy’s club, Santoson one Six -month agreement.
Neymars Santos Return: statement on the pitch
Flush until February and Neymar rose on the pitch for the first time since his departure from Saudi Arabiamakes his second debut for Santos in a Paulista A1 collision against Botafogo. The match ended in one 1-1 drawBut the real story was the 33-year-old’s response to the criticism he had received from his former coach.
Neymar entered the game at half timeDonation the iconic Number 10 -shirt once is carried by Pele. Although he was still recovering from his long -term injury, he quickly became Most Fouled Players on the pitch and suffer from five challenges from the opposition. He too took six shots and completed 22 passesSome reminiscent of his main year.
While he could not mark his return with a victory, was forward satisfied with his performance. He speaks with reporters after the match and subtle Strike back on Jorge Jesus. “I’m ready to play. Of course, I will not be able to play 90 minutes. I came from a long time injured. I needed games, ” Neymar said, quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
But he did not hide his frustration over his former manager’s remarks. “Apparently, I was very upset about Jorge Jesus’ words When he said I didn’t have the ability to play like the rest of the team. “
Night of redemption and respect
While the match itself did not end in a victory for Santos, It was a symbolic gain for Neymar. Gambling 52 minutes – the most he has succeeded since 2023 – he even exceeded his own expectations. “I need more minutes, more matches. I’m not 100%, but I didn’t expect to run as much as I did tonight. I will be much better three, four matches from now on, ” Neymar pronounced.
His impact on the game was clear, as Even players from the opposite team rushed to take pictures with him after the final whistle. “I left here at the age of 21, traveled the world and made history at the clubs I played for,” Neymar is reflected. “This [taking pictures with rivals] is the respect I get home again. “
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