Fans are in agreement as compilation emerges of Neymar's return after 369 days out

Neymar featured for Al-Hilal in their AFC Champions League clash against Al Ain.

A compilation of Neymar’s performance for Al-Hilal in their AFC Champions League clash against Al Ain has emerged following his long-awaited return – and fans are all in agreement.

The 32-year-old forward ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee while playing for Brazil in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay last year.

He underwent surgery in November to repair the damage and after 369 days out, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain winger finally made his comeback on Monday night.

After replacing Nasser Al Dawsari in the 77th minute, Neymar made an instant impact, firing his shot just wide of the left-hand post following some great build-up play with Aleksandar Mitrovic

A compilation of his performance emerged soon after the full-time whistle, with many delighted to see the Brazilian return after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

 

 

Here’s how fans on social media reacted to Neymar’s display on Monday night.

One said: “First game from ACL and he nutmeg a player he is truly back,” and a second commented: “Neymar is back, life is good again.”

A third wrote: “It’s good to see Neymar back on the pitch.”

A fourth said: “The most skillful player on the planet is back,” while a fifth added: “Him and Raphinha have a lot of similarities.”

Al-Hilal would go on to record a 5-4 win over their UAE-based opponents. as goals from Renan Lodi, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Salem Aldawsari [3] secured the dramatic victory.

 

Taking to social media after the final whistle, Neymar wrote: “I feel good… I always have a good team. I’m so happy. I’m back! I’m back!”

Neymar’s former club Santos, meanwhile, expressed their delight at the Brazilian’s much-anticipated return to the field after more than a year out.

“It was more than 12 months away from the field, with an immeasurable longing to return to doing what he loves so much,” they wrote.

“Neymar is not just a star. It’s not just genius. Neymar is synonymous with joy in football. His return is the happiness of millions of fans around the world. And, when it comes to fans, the Santos nation has an incomparable feeling.”

The club added: “A more than special bond with the best Brazilian player of recent years.”