I'm back: Emotional Neymar thrilled after 12-month injury return for Al-Hilal

An emotional Neymar proclaimed that he was back after making his much-awaited return to the playing field on October 21, Monday. Neymar made his much-anticipated return to the pitch after more than a year sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, coming on as a second-half substitute for Al Hilal in their AFC Champions League Elite clash against Al Ain.

The Brazilian star entered the match in the 77th minute, replacing Nasser Al Dawsari, shortly after Salem Al Dawsari’s goal had given Al Hilal a 5-3 lead. Neymar nearly made an immediate impact, linking up with Aleksandar Mitrovic to create space, but his shot narrowly missed the left post. The match ended 5-4 in favor of Al Hilal after Al Ain converted a late penalty to close the gap.

Neymar suffered the ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, just months after joining the Saudi Pro League (SPL) side from Paris Saint-Germain in a €90 million deal. He had managed only five appearances for Al Hilal before undergoing surgery in November 2023.

Speaking after the final whistle, the Brazilian star said that he is feeling good and thanked his team for the work they did.

“I feel good… I always have a good team. I’m so happy. I’m back! I’m back!” said Neymar.

Wishes pour in for Neymar after return

Brazil’s Football Confederation (CBF) penned a special message for Neymar and claimed he is the representation of the magic of Brazilian football.

“Neymar is the representation of the magic of Brazilian football and captivates fans from all over the world. Fans from all over the planet proudly wear shirts of the Brazilian National Team, Santos, PSG, Barcelona and Al-Hilal with the number 10 and Neymar’s name on the back. “The CBF celebrates and congratulates Neymar, one of the greatest players in the history of world football, on his return to the pitch,” read the statement.

The CBF are also hopeful of having Neymar ready for the South American World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay in November.