Brazilian football sensation Neymar has made a headline-grabbing transfer from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Saudi Arabia’s powerhouse club Al-Hilal. The much-anticipated move marks a significant shift in Neymar’s career, as he embarks on a new chapter with the Saudi Professional League (SPL) champions after a successful six-year stint with PSG.
Neymar’s tenure at PSG saw him clinch numerous domestic titles, but the coveted UEFA Champions League title remained elusive. The Brazilian forward’s new journey with Al-Hilal is poised to present fresh challenges and aspirations for both the player and the club.
While the financial terms of the transfer remain undisclosed, the reported fee is approximately 90 million euros ($98.24 million), with additional incentives and contingent on the successful completion of a medical assessment for the 31-year-old football star. French publication L’Equipe suggests that the total deal could be worth as much as 160 million euros.
Al-Hilal officially confirmed Neymar’s signing, sealing a two-year contract that will keep him with the club until 2025. In a video message posted on the team’s social media accounts, Neymar expressed his excitement, declaring, “I am here in Saudi Arabia, I am Hilali.”
The Brazilian forward initially joined PSG in 2017, making a world-record move from Barcelona for a staggering 222 million euros. During his time in Paris, he scored an impressive 118 goals in 173 appearances and secured numerous domestic titles, including five Ligue 1 championships. While his Champions League journey with PSG saw a runner-up medal in 2020, Neymar’s football journey continues with Al-Hilal in a new competitive landscape.
Commenting on Neymar’s departure, PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi stated, “It is inevitably difficult to say goodbye to a club legend, which Neymar will always be… I would like to thank him and his family.” Neymar’s departure leaves a significant void in PSG’s lineup, but also sets the stage for his new challenges and opportunities.
Al-Hilal, regarded as the most successful club in Saudi Arabia and Asia, boasts an illustrious record of 66 trophies and is renowned for its 18 league and four Asian Champions League titles. Neymar’s signing comes as a part of Al-Hilal’s strategy to further strengthen its squad after a significant investment and privatization initiative involving Saudi league giants such as Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, and Al-Nassr.
As Neymar settles into his new role in the Saudi Pro League, his arrival is poised to elevate the league’s profile and solidify Al-Hilal’s status as a football powerhouse. The transfer serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of global football and highlights the allure of Saudi football, which has recently attracted top-tier talent from around the world.
Sources By Agencies