Delayed Debut? Al-Hilal Boss Gives Crucial Health Update on Ex-PSG Star Neymar

Paris Saint-Germain moved on from Neymar Jr. this week after the Brazilian joined Al-Hilal. However, the 31-year-old doesn’t have good news, as his debut with the Saudi Arabian club will have to wait. 

Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus spoke about Neymar during his press conference. The Portuguese manager noted that the former PSG star arrived with an injury that will delay his debut. 

“Neymar can do anything,” Jesus told reporters (h/t Canal Supporters). “He’s one of the best players in the world. I don’t doubt it, but when he is in physical condition. He arrived with a minor injury. He can’t train with the team yet. I don’t know when he will be able to play.”

Furthermore, Jesus wasn’t too happy with the Brazil national team calling up Neymar for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, understanding that the player isn’t yet 100 percent. 

“I don’t know why the Brazilian team called him,” Jesus added. “He is hurt. Maybe they will force him to go to Brazil. He won’t play because he can’t play. He can’t train today already. I see no reason for his departure to Brazil. He doesn’t train. How could he play?”

Neymar is still recovering from the season-ending ankle injury that ended his 2022-23 campaign in February. The veteran did play in PSG’s preseason during their summer tour in Asia and scored a brace. It will be interesting to see how long the former PSG star is out. 

Nonetheless, all eyes will be on Neymar once he’s fit to show he can still play at a high level, even if it’s in Saudi Arabia.