Will Neymar play for Al Hilal against Al Ain in the AFC Champions League tonight after being sidelined for over a year due to injury?

The 2024 AFC Champions League seems to be in full swing. While there are some exciting games ahead of matchday three, all eyes will be on Al Hilal, who will take on Al Ain in a thrilling clash. Both teams will do it seek an emphatic victory in what is expected to be a promising encounter. Only a few hours left until kick-off, the question remains whether star player Neymar will play for Al Hilal tonight.

The Brazilian superstar, who moved from Paris Saint-Germain to the Blue Waves in the summer of 2023, only made five appearances before suffering a torn meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The unfortunate, tear-jerking injury occurred while the 32-year-old was on duty for his international team in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Since then, the Brazilian has been involved in various recovery methods following a successful operation.

Now that the new season has already begun, all eyes are on the return date of the former FC Barcelona superstar. Well, guess what, the moment everyone has been waiting for is finally here! Neymar Jr. will play tonight for Al Hilal. The number 10 traveled with Jorge Jesus and Co. to the group phase game of the AFC Champions League against Al Ain at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium and is available for selection.

Although head coach Jorge Jesus has not confirmed whether Neymar will play tonight, there are still expectations that he will feature for at least a few minutes. Even his marketing company NR Sports shared this opinion in a statement on Saturday. “Although there is no final decision on his return, the number 10 will be able to play on Monday to continue his remarkable development.”

It’s true that Neymar had made A return for training back in July. Although this significantly increased the expectations of many to be at the 2024 Copa America against Brazil, he still would not have traveled to the United States to represent his country. While he is capable Anyone who plays for Al Hilal in the AFC Champions League cannot say the same for the Saudi Pro League.

The attacker would have to wait until January to make his impending return to national play. In the meantime, he has something for his beloved fans.

Neymar sends a heartfelt message in front of his Al Hilal

The Al Hilal superstar seems desperate to shoot the ball on the field, but before he does, he has something to say. As compiled by the transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Neymar himself, spoke about his highly anticipated return to his adoring fanbase, stating: “Every day without football It is Pain for me. I love football. It’s what I love most in my life.”

His marketing team further expressed the emotions on his behalf, stating: “There were days full of pain, fear and great longing for football, which we overcame with the help of family and friends, who were always there for our number 10, and all the fans.” around the world who gave him every support on social networks,” the statement added. “The wait is over.” Yes, it actually is.