Neymar Not Ready to Return for Al-Hilal

Neymar is not ready for an imminent return to Al-Hilal, as confirmed by head coach Jorge Jesus. The Brazilian forward, who joined the club in August 2023, has been sidelined due to a knee injury sustained while on international duty, limiting him to just five appearances before undergoing surgery. Although Neymar returned to training in July, Jesus stated that a clearer timeline for his return will be assessed in January. Neymar's spot in the team's roster for the first half of the Saudi Pro League was taken by Marcos Leonardo, a recent signing from Benfica. Upon regaining fitness, Neymar will be eligible to participate in the AFC Champions League, which has no restrictions on foreign player registrations. His contract with Al-Hilal runs until August 2025.