Neymar Joins Al-Hilal From PSG
Saudi side, Al-Hilal have announced the signing of Brazil forward, Neymar from French champions Paris St-Germain.
The deal for the former Barcelona player, 31, is understood to be worth about 90m euros (£77.6m) plus add-ons.
“I’ve achieved a lot in Europe and enjoyed special times, but I have always wanted to be a global player and test myself with new challenges and opportunities in new places,” he said.
Neymar was not part of PSG coach Luis Enrique’s plans for the new season.
The striker, who joined PSG for a world record fee of £200m in 2017, was left out of their squad for Saturday’s Ligue 1 draw against Lorient.
His departure also fits PSG’s strategy of moving away from the ‘Galacticos‘ era of signing high-profile players for big fees and significant wages, with Lionel Messi also leaving the club this summer.
“I want to write new sporting history, and the Saudi Pro League has tremendous energy and quality players at the moment,” Neymar added.
“I have heard a lot and learned that I am following a long list of Brazilian players who have played in Saudi Arabia over the years, so I believe it is the desired place.”
The forward was understood to be earning an annual income in the region of 25m euros (£21.6m) at the French club.
He will reportedly be paid 150m euros (£129.2m) a year in Saudi Arabia – six times the amount he earned at PSG – having signed a two-year contract.
Al Hilal’s chairman, Fahad bin Saad, called Neymar “a global icon” and “an unstoppable attacking force” in welcoming him to the club.
The Brazilian made 173 appearances for PSG, helping the club win 13 trophies, including five Ligue 1 titles, as well as reaching the 2020 Champions League final.
“It is always difficult to say goodbye to an amazing player like Neymar, one of the best players in the world” said Nasser Al-Khelaifi, PSG’s president and chief executive.
“I will never forget the day he arrived at Paris St-Germain, and what he has contributed to our club and our project over the last six years.“
