Neymar Jr. Made his return to competitive football on Monday, appearing as a substitute for Al-Hilal in their 5-4 victory over Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite, marking his first match in over a year following a severe knee injury.
The 32-year-classic Brazilian forward entered the game in the 77th minute at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, according to reports from CNN and Fox Sports. The appearance signaled his comeback from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus sustained in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Uruguay.
Neymar underwent surgery in November 2023, and his recovery has been closely watched. He signed with Al-Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for a reported €90 million ($97.6 million), but managed only five appearances before the injury. His return to training began in July 2024, though his club coach, Jorge Jesus, cautioned against expecting an immediate return to full match fitness in September.
Prior to his return, Neymar’s marketing company, NR Sports, released a statement on Saturday indicating his availability for the match against Al Ain, citing his “love for soccer” and desire to compete in the next World Cup as driving forces behind his recovery. Neymar himself expressed his elation, telling Al-Hilal’s media department, “I’m so happy. I’m back! I’m back!”
Detailed statistics from Transfermarkt show Neymar’s extensive career history, including appearances in Ligue 1, the UEFA Champions League, and LaLiga, but do not reflect any match play since the injury sustained in October 2023. His most recent competitive minutes prior to Monday were with Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazilian national team.
The Brazilian’s return was met with widespread celebration on social media, including a post from his former club, Santos, acknowledging the lengthy recovery and expressing joy at his return to the pitch.
Al-Hilal’s next scheduled match is currently unconfirmed, leaving Neymar’s continued involvement in the AFC Champions League and Saudi Pro League contingent on his physical condition and coaching decisions.
