Neymar Excited to Face Ronaldo, Benzema After Al Hilal Move

In a groundbreaking move that has set the football world abuzz, Brazilian forward Neymar has embarked on a new chapter by joining Riyadh-based Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. The 31-year-old former Paris Saint-Germain star recently spoke out about his decision, highlighting the league’s competitiveness and hailing Cristiano Ronaldo for catalyzing the league’s growth.

Neymar’s transition from the French champions to Al Hilal, in a transfer valued at $98.6 million (€90 million), marks a watershed moment. This departure has witnessed a volley of speculations, including links to Manchester United, Chelsea, and even a return to Barcelona’s Camp Nou. However, in his first public statements since the move, Neymar lauded Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr post his release from Manchester United during the 2022 World Cup.

“I believe Cristiano Ronaldo started all of this and everybody called him ‘crazy,’ and this and that,” Neymar candidly stated. “Today you see the league grow more and more.”

Neymar’s optimism about the Saudi Pro League’s ascent is palpable. “The league will be very competitive, especially after the signings made in the summer transfer window. I believe competitiveness is important. That’s why I am joining this league. I am driven by challenges. I am there to help the league grow,” he affirmed.

“I am very excited to write a new story chasing all the objectives with the club and my teammates — winning more and more titles and fulfilling the club’s ambition. I am very excited in that regard,” Neymar added, underscoring his commitment to Al Hilal’s journey.

The illustrious forward, set to earn an annual salary of $100 million (€91.7 million) at Al Hilal, further elaborated on the league’s allure, anticipating riveting clashes with formidable opponents. “It is exciting, meeting top-quality players on the other teams thrills you, and motivates you to play even better,” Neymar enthused.

He expressed excitement about encountering renowned figures like Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Roberto Firmino, and more, setting the stage for captivating matchups. “So I am happy to join this league, facing them will be wonderful, it will be fantastic. Of course a lot of Brazil will be watching the league. Obviously, I will be there and I expect all Brazilians and everybody following the league to support Al Hilal,” Neymar emphasized.

“The message I have for them is I will do my best to make them enjoy football, our goal is winning all titles,” Neymar added, echoing his dedication to his new team’s triumphs.

The Saudi Pro League’s strategic investment of over €600 million to attract a constellation of top players and coaches from European clubs has undeniably elevated its stature. The arrival of prominent names such as Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez has further augmented the league’s profile.

As Neymar prepares for his Al Hilal debut, where they are scheduled to face Al-Feiha in the upcoming league fixture on Saturday, anticipation and excitement ripple through the football world, signaling a new era in Saudi Arabian football.