Neymar to MISS start of 2024-25 season as Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus gives honest update on Brazilian's recovery from ACL surgery

Neymar joined Al Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 on a two-year contract, marking a significant move in his illustrious career. However, his time on the pitch for the Saudi Pro League giants has been minimal as he picked up an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in his left knee while on international duty in October 2023. This significant injury has kept the forward out of action, impacting both his club and international commitments.

Al-Hilal boss is not expecting Neymar back any time soon either, as he told reporters when asked for an update on the Brazilian's recovery from surgery: "The [recovery] time they give Neymar, in an injury like this, is normally between 10 and 11 months. Neymar will not be operational at the start of next season. We think that in September, October, he may be in a position to compete."

Jesus also revealed that he is negotiating a fresh deal with Al-Hilal following an incredible 2023-24 season. The Portuguese manager returned to the club last summer and has since achieved remarkable success, including a record-breaking run of 34 consecutive wins in all competitions, en route to the Saudi Pro League title.

"First I will settle the contract with the board and then that [team planning for next season] will come," he said. "But I confirm that we are in constant discussions about the players."

Despite being Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar will miss this summer's Copa America, in what is a significant blow to the Selecao. Nevertheless, there is optimism that he could return in time to feature in Brazil's South American World Cup qualifiers later this year, offering a glimmer of hope for fans and team-mates alike.

Jesus can hardly rest on his laurels as Al-Hilal have the opportunity to bag another piece of silverware before ending the campaign, with a clash against Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in the Saudi King Cup final on the cards.