Neymar Jr. is acclaimed as one of the most skillful and gifted players in soccer, having showcased his talents in top clubs globally. He currently represents Al-Hilal, a prominent club in Asia that competes in the newly famed Saudi Pro League, sharing the pitch with other superstar players in the Gulf League.
As illuminating as Neymar’s career is, it has been significantly hindered by persistent injury issues. Throughout his tenure at PSG, he frequently missed matches due to fitness concerns, attracting considerable criticism for his off-field activities and lifestyle. Now, Al-Hilal’s boss has called out and criticized his other priorities.
Al Hilal coach shades Neymar Jr comparing to Cristiano Ronaldo
Neymar Jr. is currently recovering from an ACL injury he sustained during the World Cup qualifiers for Brazil. Following a successful surgery, he is on the path to recovery and will be unavailable for the remainder of this season. Moreover, the forward has been ruled out of the Copa America 2024.
Speculation swirls the 31-year-old, recently fueling MLS transfer rumors by posing with a fan holding an Inter Miami jersey, although he is contracted with the Pro League outfit until 2025, with an additional year option. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to fitness issues and recurrent injuries.
In the mix, Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus has expressed his concerns about Neymar Jr.’s perspective and off-field lifestyle. He went on to draw a comparison with the former Real Madrid icon Cristiano Ronaldo, calling into question the work ethic and dedication of the player towards the sport.
He said, “Cristiano Ronaldo has more passion for football and, therefore, puts that as a priority. Neymar has more passion for other things and he puts these other things, which is his private life, ahead. But as a player, he is fabulous, and as a man, I spent a month and a half with him, he positively surprised me in everything.”
Neymar Jr to cost Al Hilal £2.5M per week without playing
Neymar Jr. has only stepped onto the field five times for the Riyadh club since his debut and faced an unfortunate end to his season with an ACL injury. As the highest-paid player at the club, the winger is reportedly earning 2 million in weekly wages without playing.
Concluding his six-year stint in the French capital with Paris Saint-Germain, where he used to earn an estimated €30 million per-season fee, Neymar Jr. moved to the Middle East, agreeing to a massive €300 million deal with Al-Hilal. This marked him as the most expensive transfer of the summer window in 2023.
