'Not a medical department': Neymar Jr faces transfer rejection from Brazilian club

NEW DELHI: Brazilian club Palmeiras president Leila Pereira has firmly dismissed rumours linking Neymar Jr to her club, blatantly saying that she would consider bringing in players who are not match-ready.
“Neymar will not join Palmeiras; this club isn’t a medical department,” Pereira said. “I want someone who can join immediately and play tomorrow if the manager wishes. I won’t accept us signing a player who’s unfit to play.”
The statement comes amid Neymar’s ongoing injury woes.

The Brazilian star, currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, is sidelined due to a muscle issue. This setback has fueled speculation about his future with the club, particularly since he has struggled to make an impact since his high-profile transfer in August 2023.
Neymar returned to action during Al-Hilal’s 3-0 AFC Champions League Elite victory over Iran's Esteghlal. Substituted in the 58th minute, his appearance marked only his second for the club in the respective competition following a year-long recovery from a serious injury.
However, he was forced to leave the pitch after pulling up in the game’s closing moments.
Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus later clarified that the injury was muscular and unrelated to Neymar's previous knee issues, estimating a two-week recovery period.
Neymar addressed the situation on social media, expressing cautious optimism. “Hopefully nothing too much,” he wrote. “After one year out, this happens. The doctors had already warned me, so I have to be careful and gradually play more minutes.”

Reports in Saudi Arabian media suggest Neymar's absence might extend to three weeks.
With his limited contributions so far—only seven matches since his $90 million transfer—there is growing uncertainty over whether Al-Hilal will register him for the second half of the Saudi Pro League season.
The club currently has its maximum allocation of 10 foreign players for domestic competitions, though Neymar remains eligible for continental tournaments.
A new registration window in January could provide a resolution, but for now, Neymar’s future remains in limbo, with Palmeiras making it clear they are not an option.