Brazilian superstar Neymar, now playing for Al Hilal, is reportedly in preliminary discussions with three MLS clubs, including Chicago Fire. While speculation swirls, one thing is clear: The transfer speculation involving Neymar to the United States has excited many fans and pundits.
Inexplicably, Inter Miami, which boasts Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba among its residents, is not one of them. Manager Javier Mascherano described a Neymar signing as impossible because of the MLS financial limitations. However, Neymar is said to harbor ambitions of linking up with Messi and Luis Suarez in South Florida. For now, that dream is still a dream.
Tough Times For Neymar in Saudi Arabia
Since joining Al Hilal in January 2023 for a record $97.6m, Neymar has been plagued by injuries in Saudi Arabia. He arrived at the club with a torn ACL while on international duty and was sidelined shortly after. Although he got back in action in October, he suffered a hamstring injury that set him back. So far, Neymar has played only seven matches, in which he scored only one goal against Nassaji Mazandaran in the AFC Champions League. Even without their marquee signing Al Hilal secured the Saudi Pro League title last season proving that they are more than a one-man team.
According to Insider and Fabrizio Romano, Neymar will not be considered for the second half of the Saudi Pro League. Al Hilal boss, Jorge Jesus, stated “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. When he was about to return, he got injured again,” he continued and said, “He is a player who leaves no doubt, a world-class player. But the truth is that physically, Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately.“
Is MLS Neymar’s New Frontier?
It would be a new chapter in the Brazilian footballer’s career if he were to join any MLS team. Chicago Fire FC, one of the clubs that was said to be in discussions, has not said anything. Any transfer would have to be complex since he signed a contract with Al Hilal until June 2025.
The discussions have been described by insiders close to Neymar as preliminary. Still, if he signs for MLS, his fame can take the league to another level of popularity in the world.
The former Barcelona forward will forever be remembered for his time in Barcelona between 2013 and 2017 when he played alongside Messi and Suarez. In the attacking trio, the Catalans had won a UEFA Champions League title, two La Liga titles as well as three Copa del Rey titles. His record-breaking move to PSG secured five Ligue 1 titles but came with the player often plagued by injuries.
Internationally Brazil is benefited by Neymar who scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil. He is best known for taking Brazil to Olympic glory in 2016 but has struggled with injuries more often than not.
What’s Next for Brazilian Superstar Neymar?
While discussions with MLS continue, Neymar’s future is yet another enigma. Whether he arrives in Chicago or some other city of MLS, his impact will be revolutionary for the league. Neymar is still just 32, and there is more magic left in him, fans from all over the world are interested in the next step.
For now, Neymar’s story goes on as an indication that the name is enough to brighten the footballing universe.