Will Neymar Junior play in the AFC Champions League Elite for Al-Hilal?

Neymar Junior's time at Al-Hilal may well be on its way to a drastic and unfortunate end as club manager Jorge Jesus recently shared important updates regarding the Brazilian superstar's situation.

Jorge Jesus announced that Neymar wont participate in the second half of the Saudi Pro League season but will still have the opportunity to participate in the Asian Champions League. The manager noted that at 32 years age, Neymar is currently dealing with an injury. This has raised questions about his future with the club.

Neymar to only compete in ACL Elite fixtures 

The Al-Hilal manager asserted that Neymar will not be registered for the next half of the season. However, he will be eligible to participate in the Asian Champions League. According to the coach, the Saudi League ranks among the best leagues in the world, and all Al-Hilal players possess the capability to play for any European club. Unfortunately, Neymar can no longer perform at the level expected of him, and the challenges he faces are significant. The coach emphasized that Neymar's future ultimately lies in his own hands, but the decision will also depend on the club's administration.

"Neymar will not be registered in the team for the championship. He can participate in the Asian Champions League. The Saudi League is one of the best leagues in the world. All Al-Hilal players can play for any club in Europe. Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately. He is still under contract with Al Hilal and it may be up to him to decide his future. It depends on the administration. I don't know anything about Neymar's future. We have a place available on the list, reserved for a player born in 2003 or later." he said.

Neymar's move from PSG to Al-Hilal in August 2023 for an astonishing €90 million has been a disaster. Since joining the club, he has only endured setbacks, including a knee ligament injury sustained while playing for his national team in October. To date, he has made only seven appearances and scored a mere one goal. 

This means, Neymar may play up to seven more games for Al-Hilal if the team advances to the final of the AFC Champions League this season. The two-legged round of 16 tie in the competition is expected to occur in February.