Al Hilal: Will Neymar Play in the Champions League? Jesus Names His Starting Lineup
The Saudi Pro League giants, Al Hilal, have made a splash in the transfer market, bringing in Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. from Paris Saint-Germain. But with the Champions League just around the corner, a question arises: Will Neymar be eligible to play for Al Hilal in the prestigious tournament?
Neymar's Champions League Eligibility
The answer, unfortunately, is no. Neymar will not be eligible to play for Al Hilal in the Champions League this season. The transfer window for Asian club competitions closed on August 1st, 2023, meaning new players are not allowed to be registered after this date.
This means Neymar will have to wait until next season's Champions League to make his debut for Al Hilal in the tournament. However, this doesn't diminish the excitement surrounding his arrival. He's set to bring immense talent and star power to the Saudi Pro League, further elevating its profile on the global stage.
Jesus Names His Starting Lineup
Meanwhile, Al Hilal manager Jorge Jesus has revealed his starting lineup for the upcoming match against Abha Club on September 1st, 2023. While Neymar is still awaiting his debut, fans are eager to see the new-look Al Hilal in action.
Here's a look at the starting XI as announced by Jorge Jesus:
Goalkeeper: Abdullah Al-Mayouf
Defenders: Yasser Al-Shahrani, Jang Hyun-soo, Ali Al-Bulaihi, Mohammed Alburayk
Midfielders: Gustavo Cuéllar, Salem Al-Dawsari, Sergej Milinković-Savić
Forwards: Michael, Odion Ighalo, Malcom
This lineup boasts a blend of experience and talent, featuring some of the best players in the Saudi Pro League. Fans are eagerly anticipating the performance of the team with their newly acquired star players.
The Future of Al Hilal
The arrival of Neymar and the continued presence of other talented players like Malcom and Odion Ighalo promises an exciting future for Al Hilal. With their ambitions set on both domestic and continental dominance, the team is poised to be a force to be reckoned with in the coming seasons.
While Neymar might not be on the pitch for the Champions League this year, his arrival is a significant boost to Al Hilal's long-term ambitions. The Saudi Pro League is witnessing a revolution, and Al Hilal is at the forefront, with Neymar as the latest, and arguably the biggest, star to join the movement.