Brazilian football star Neymar has made a major career change, transferring from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Saudi club Al Hilal. The deal is reportedly worth €90 million ($98.24 million) plus add-ons. The move marks a significant shift for Neymar, who has spent the past six seasons at PSG, where he arrived in 2017 from Barcelona in a historic €222 million (approximately $245 million) deal.
During his time with PSG, Neymar showcased his football prowess, scoring 118 goals in 173 appearances and securing numerous titles, including five Ligue 1 championships. The 31-year-old Brazilian said he was excited to join Al Hilal and test himself against a new challenge.
“I have always wanted to be a global player, and I am looking forward to writing new sporting history in Saudi Arabia,” he said.
Al Hilal’s chairman, Turki Al Shaikh, said he was delighted to sign Neymar. “We are very happy to welcome Neymar to Al Hilal. He is one of the best players in the world, and he will be a great addition to our team,” he said. Al Hilal are the most successful club in Saudi Arabia and Asia, having won 66 trophies, including 18 league titles and four Asian Champions League titles.
Neymar’s arrival is the latest in a series of high-profile signings by Saudi clubs in recent months. In June, Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nassr, while Al Ittihad signed French striker Karim Benzema from Real Madrid.
The Saudi Pro League is now one of the most attractive leagues in the world for top players, thanks to the financial backing of the Saudi Public Investment Fund. The fund is also investing in the development of youth football in Saudi Arabia, with the aim of creating a generation of world-class players.
Neymar’s move to Al Hilal marks the next chapter in his football journey, a shift that reflects his ambition for fresh challenges and his aspirations to continue making an impact on the global football stage.