Reports from the Brazilian press suggest that star striker Neymar intends to leave Al Hilal Club after just over a month with the team. His goal is to return to Santos Club roughly a year before the 2026 World Cup kicks off.

“Neymar is not interested in a lengthy stay with Al Hilal Club. He hasn’t signed a four-year contract but rather a two-year one. After the 2024-2025 season, Neymar intends to make a comeback to Santos Club to compete and prepare for the 2026 World Cup,” shared Brazilian journalist Ademir Quintino on his social media platform.

Ademir Quintino maintains a close relationship with Neymar’s father, Neymar Senior, who is also the player’s agent and a friend of the 31-year-old Brazilian superstar.

“Through discussions with Mr. Neymar Senior and Neymar’s close friends, I’ve received information indicating that they’ve signed a two-year contract with Saudi Arabia, not a four-year one. This allows Neymar to rejoin Santos Club approximately a year ahead of the 2026 World Cup.”

“Santos Club has been approached by Neymar’s camp regarding his return. I share mutual friends with Neymar, whose names I won’t disclose, and they all believe Neymar genuinely desires a return to Santos Club,” shared journalist Ademir Quintino.

Santos Club holds a special place in Neymar’s heart as it’s where he began his career as a young player, making his way to the first team in 2009 and staying until 2013. He subsequently moved to Barcelona Club and, in August 2017, made a record-breaking transfer to PSG Club for €222 million, a record that still stands. Last August, Neymar left PSG after six seasons to join Al Hilal Club for a €90 million fee, marking a record in the Saudi Pro League.

According to GOAL News: “Neymar did not wish to part ways with PSG. However, changes in the Parisian team’s project compelled this star to depart. Neymar’s move to Saudi Arabia is primarily driven by commercial, rather than professional, reasons. Neymar himself is well aware of this.”

“Therefore, after only a brief stint, Neymar is planning to exit Saudi Arabia and return to Brazil to compete, in order to ensure the best professional preparation for the 2026 World Cup, where he aims to secure the championship title. This represents Neymar’s final opportunity to achieve his long-standing ambition of being recognized as the world’s top football player.”

Neymar has participated in just three matches for Al Hilal Club and has yet to score a goal, although he has contributed two assists. Reports suggest that the Brazilian superstar is dissatisfied with coach Jorge Jesus, who has given him limited playing time. As a result, Neymar has reportedly requested that Al Hilal’s board of directors consider appointing a new coach.