Star footballer Neymar Jr has finally made his return to training and will travel with his Saudi Pro League club, Al Hilal, for their upcoming AFC Champions League match. The Brazilian forward has been out of action for a year after sustaining an ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier match against Uruguay last October. After completing his recovery program, Neymar has been cleared to join the squad for the away trip to Al Ain.
Al Hilal confirmed Neymar’s return on their social media, stating that the 32-year-old participated in team training and will be available to play in Monday’s AFC Champions League Elite match. Neymar’s marketing company also released a statement confirming his comeback and expressing his enthusiasm to continue his illustrious career. Photos shared by the club showed Neymar taking part in a training session and traveling with the team for their match against Al Ain in the UAE.
Neymar had moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Al Hilal for a reported fee of 90 million euros in August last year. However, his playing time was limited due to muscle injuries before his ACL injury sidelined him for an extended period. The prolific forward missed Brazil’s 2024 Copa America campaign and has been working towards his return to action, motivated by his love for the game and his desire to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Despite his injury setbacks, Neymar has remained determined to make a full recovery and return to the pitch at the highest level. His agency highlighted the support he has received from family, friends, and fans during his rehabilitation process, emphasizing his commitment to making a strong comeback. Neymar’s emotional video message showcased his dedication to overcoming obstacles and returning to his best form on the field.
While Neymar’s coach, Jorge Jesus, did not confirm his availability for Monday’s match, the Brazilian star is eligible to play in AFC Champions League Elite matches due to the competition’s lack of restrictions on foreign players. However, he will not be able to compete in the Saudi Pro League until January. If he remains fit, Neymar could potentially feature in Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifying matches in November, signaling his desire to represent his country once again.
Neymar’s return to training and potential comeback in competitive matches mark a significant milestone in his recovery journey. With his sights set on returning to peak performance and achieving his World Cup aspirations, the star forward’s determination and resilience are evident as he looks to make a strong impact on the field once again. The football world eagerly awaits Neymar’s return to action and the opportunity to witness his skill and talent back in full display.
