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Despite $418,000,000 ‘Absurd’ Move, Neymar Jr Will Score 30 Goals For Al Hilal, Says Brazilian Legend in a Big U-Turn

Published 09/02/2023, 11:54 AM EDT

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Neymar Jr. left Europe after signing a record-breaking deal with Al Hilal. However, many soccer experts were skeptical about the transfer and do not believe in the Saudi Arabian project. Meanwhile, a Brazilian legend remarked that the former PSG star will only thrive in the league if he changes his position to amplify his world-class talent on the field.

The former Corinthian star believes that Neymar’s move to Al Hilal does not transcend his legacy in soccer and reduces his chances to represent Brazil in the 2026 World Cup. Additionally, he regarded that the Brazilian maestro should play as a second striker instead of a winger to score more goals.

What did the Brazilian legend say about Neymar Jr.?

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Neto, a renowned soccer figure, suggested the 31-year-old star should play centrally to the goal under Jorge Jesus in order to avoid injuries that afflicted his tenure with PSG. In the eyes of the Corinthian legend, Neymar could surpass 30 goals, maintaining an advanced position in the attacking third with the Middle East side.

Neto said about Neymar on Rádio Banderites,Neymar has to be the second striker. If he’s the second striker, he’ll score 30 goals in the league. If he wants to get the ball, as he was doing with the national team and PSG, he’ll struggle. If he plays up front, he’ll score 30 goals in the season”.

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via Imago

The former PSG man was included in the national team’s roster for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru. In the meantime, Neto emphasized the importance of Neymar staying focused on performing at his highest standard for Brazil. However, he regarded his signing with Al Hilal as an unconventional move that altered the course of Ney’s club career.

After Al Hilal Enticed Neymar Jr to Sign $418,000,000 Contract, Ex-Teammate Aims Returning to $70.6 Million Worth Home Club

Neto’s take Brazilian star’s move to Saudi Arabia

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Neymar Jr. secured an unprecedented contract worth $418 million with Al Hilal in this transfer window. Furthermore, the Brazilian forward had his sight set on returning to his former team, Barcelona. Nevertheless, the deal did not materialize and led to his joining the Saudi side after his strong desire to leave Parisians this summer.

via Reuters

As a result, Brazilian fans and soccer pundits viewed this decision as less sensible despite the impact it would create for the Saudi League this season. On this occasion, Neto said, “How can you put this guy to be an idol of Brazil and be the representative in 2026 playing in Arabia? This is absurd”. Meanwhile, Al Hilal had high hopes to witness Neymar Jr in their colors along with many other European talents that landed with the Saudi side in this transfer window.

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WATCH THIS STORY- Jimmy Butler Approves $120,000,000 Richer ‘Friend’ Neymar Jr’s Multi-Million Saudi League Deal

Did you agree with how Neto regarded Neymar Jr. in the press conference? Comment below and let us know.

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Written by:

Prabuddha Basu

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Prabuddha is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. Growing up watching the sagacious Manchester United where legends like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes shone, Prabuddha has been an admirer of the EPL giants, and looks forward to the new era stars like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford as the torch bearers. Keen follower of the game, he values weaving his articles with facts, analysis and captivating narratives.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra