Neymar last played on Oct. 13, 2023, when he tore his ACL during Brazil's 2-0 loss to Uruguay in World Cup qualifying, only a few months after joining Al-Hilal in the most high-profile move to the Gulf nation in a summer of spending for Saudi Pro League sides.

Neymar returned to action after a year out through injury and helped Al-Hilal beat Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates 5-4 in the group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday. Neymar signed for the Saudi Arabia club in August 2023 but played only five times before tearing an anterior cruciate ligament last October.

Neymar made a victorious comeback after a year-long injury, helping Al-Hilal secure a 5-4 win over Al Ain in the AFC Champions League. Despite a year out, his presence was felt as he nearly scored immediately.