Neymar set for Al-Hilal return after ACL injury

Neymar, the 32-year-old Brazilian football star, is set to make his long-awaited return to competitive action for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The club announced that Neymar has completed his recovery program and will join the squad for their upcoming Asian Champions League match against Al-Ain in the UAE.

This marks a significant milestone for Neymar, who has been sidelined since October 2023 due to a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained during a World Cup qualifier match for Brazil against Uruguay. The injury required surgery in November and led to an extended period of rehabilitation.

Neymar's return is particularly noteworthy given the high-profile nature of his transfer to Al-Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for a reported fee of around 90 million euros. Prior to his injury, he had only managed to play five games for his new club due to muscle issues.

The lengthy recovery period caused Neymar to miss Brazil's 2024 Copa America campaign in the United States, where the team suffered a quarterfinal exit. His absence was keenly felt by the national team, as he is Brazil's all-time leading scorer.

Neymar's agency highlighted that his love for football and ambition to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup were key motivators in his recovery process. The player himself expressed emotional sentiments about his journey back to fitness, emphasizing his determination to return stronger.

While Neymar is eligible to play in the AFC Champions League Elite matches, he won't be able to participate in Saudi Pro League matches until January due to restrictions on foreign players. If his fitness allows, he could potentially return to the Brazilian national team for World Cup qualifiers scheduled for November.

The football world will be eagerly watching Neymar's comeback, as he aims to regain his form and continue his illustrious career after this significant setback.