Topics: Neymar, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Pro League, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain
Neymar has been brutally de-registered from Al Hilal's Saudi Pro League squad, with manager Jorge Jesus giving a truthful explanation.
The Brazil star signed for the Riyahd outfit in August 2023 from Paris Saint-Germain in a league-record £86.3 million transfer.
But the deal has not gone to plan, with Neymar playing just seven times in all competitions for the club. He had only made five appearances before he suffered an ACL injury on international duty which ruled him out for more than a year.
The former Barcelona forward has suffered with other injuries since then and his club have made the decision to remove him from their SPL squad. It means he will only be eligible to play in the Asian Champions League, where Al Hilal are next in action against Persepolis on 4 February.
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"Ney will not be registered, but he can participate in the Asian Champions League," Jesus said in an honest admission about Neymar's situation.
“He’s world class. But the truth is, physically, Neymar can no longer perform at the level we are used to”.
The 32-year-old is being heavily linked with a move to the MLS, with ESPN claiming he is in preliminary talks with three clubs - one being Chicago Fire.
Al Hilal are said to be eyeing up a huge move for Liverpool star Mo Salah as a superstar replacement for Neymar.
"Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately," Jesus added when asked about Neymar's future in a press conference.
"He is still under contract with Al Hilal and it may be up to him to decide his future. It depends on the club, on the administration.
"The only thing I know is that Neymar is not registered [in the Saudi Pro league]. Until Jan. 31 the [transfer] window is open. So I'm not going to speculate on things I don't know."
Although he has cut him from his squad and believes he is past his best, Jesus is well-liked by Neymar - who admires the honest approach he takes with players.
In an interview with Romario TV, Neymar praised Jesus' style and how he communicates with the players.
"He’s a very honest guy," Neymar stated.
"If you’re playing poorly, he’ll tell you to your face. As a coach, he’s really good; he works the team very well.
"I like him because he treats me well and makes me laugh a lot. There was a time he tried to teach me how to take penalties, and I said, ‘You’re trying to teach the priest how to say Mass?’".
