The 32-year-old joined Al-Hilal in August 2023 for a reported fee of €90 million (£77.6 million). However, injuries limited him to just seven appearances during his tenure. Despite his prolific reputation as the world's most expensive player following his €222 million (£200 million) move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017, Neymar has only managed two appearances in the 2024/25 season, the last being a substitute appearance in November 2024.
Al-Hilal expressed gratitude for Neymar's contributions in a statement, saying, "The club thanks Neymar for his efforts during his time with us and wishes him success in his future endeavors." Neymar, who signed a two-year deal with Al-Hilal in 2023, was reportedly earning €150 million (£129.2 million) annually. His contract had about seven months remaining before the termination.
Neymar joined Al-Hilal with ambitions to "write new sporting history" but faced an extended period on the sidelines after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus during Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. Although he returned briefly a year later, he has not played since his second comeback match, where he reportedly struggled with a hamstring issue.
The former Barcelona and PSG star now looks set to return to his roots, with strong speculation linking him to a move back to Brazilian club Santos, where he began his career. Neymar emerged through Santos' youth system and scored 136 goals in 225 games before his high-profile transfer to Barcelona in 2013.
During his four seasons in Spain, Neymar made 186 appearances, securing two La Liga titles, the Champions League, and the Club World Cup. His move to PSG saw him win five Ligue 1 titles before his departure to Saudi Arabia.
Neymar also reached a significant milestone shortly after joining Al-Hilal, surpassing Pelé to become Brazil's all-time leading male goalscorer with 78 international goals. However, his national team appearances have been on hold since his knee injury in 2023.
While Santos appears to be his most likely next destination, other clubs, including MLS side Chicago Fire, reportedly showed interest. However, sources suggest that Neymar and his family are prioritizing other opportunities at this time.
Neymar leaves Al-Hilal having played just seven matches in 18 months, his time marred by injuries that derailed his ambitions in Saudi Arabia.
