Brazilian soccer star Neymar returned to the field more than a year after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his left knee, playing 20 minutes for Al-Hilal on Monday.
The 32-year-old entered the match as a substitute in the 77th minute during a thrilling 5-4 victory against Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite.
Neymar joined the Saudi club from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for €90 million ($97.6 million), but he had only appeared in five games before suffering an injury on October 17, 2023. He left a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in tears after a challenge from Nicolás de la Cruz. He underwent surgery in November.
“I’m so happy,” the Brazilian told Al-Hilal’s media team after his return on Monday. “I’m back! I’m back!”
Neymar’s return was celebrated across social media. His former club, Santos, expressed on X (formerly Twitter), “It has been over 12 months away from the pitch, filled with an immense longing to return to what he loves most.”
They added, “Neymar is more than just a star; he’s a genius. He represents joy in football. His comeback brings happiness to millions of fans worldwide. For Santos fans, the connection is truly unique—a bond with the best Brazilian player of recent years.”
Portuguese winger Rafael Leão also expressed his happiness about Neymar’s return, posting on his Instagram Stories: “Football is back.”
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer, missed the Copa América in the U.S. this summer, where Brazil was eliminated by Uruguay in the quarterfinals after a penalty shootout.
Currently in fourth place in the CONMEBOL standings, the Seleção hopes to have Neymar available for their World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay in November.
Although Neymar can participate in continental competitions with Al-Hilal, he won’t be eligible to play in the Saudi Pro League until January. This is due to restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed in each team’s squad, and the registration period is currently closed.
His contract with Al-Hilal, which is at the top of the league after winning all seven of its matches, runs until June 2025.