Al Hilal Scrambles for A-List Replacements as Neymar Faces 9-Month Sideline; Messi and Modrić Eyed for Tactical Reshuffle
In an unforeseen setback, Saudi Pro League football club Al Hilal and its fanbase are reeling from the devastating news of Neymar Jr.’s severe injury. The Brazilian star player suffered a torn cruciate ligament and cartilage while representing his country in the South American qualifiers against Uruguay for the 2026 World Cup.
The injury is expected to keep Neymar out of action for up to nine months, leaving Al Hilal in a quandary about how to fill the gaping void in their lineup.
Check the video that gave Neymar the injury, like if you feel sorry for Neymar pic.twitter.com/shnHrCWtoP
— King Bob BLS (@rhymion_bls) October 19, 2023
Possible Replacements: Messi and Modrić
Among the top contenders to replace Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luka Modrić have become the focal point of discussions.
Messi, who had been close to signing with Al Hilal in the summer of 2023, diverted unexpectedly to Inter Miami. Currently untethered from any active competitions for approximately four months, Messi presents an enticing opportunity for Al Hilal to negotiate a loan until the end of the season. Messi’s prospective arrival could also serve his personal interests, keeping him match-fit ahead of Argentina’s participation in Copa América in summer 2024.
Croatian superstar Luka Modrić is another potential recruit. Although he extended his contract with Real Madrid for one more season last summer, Modrić hasn’t been a regular starter in the current lineup. He is reportedly reconsidering his future at the Spanish club, making the negotiations to bring him to Al Hilal easier than last summer.
Both Messi and Modrić can fit into Neymar’s roles as a playmaker and winger, offering tactical flexibility for the Saudi club.
Despite affirmations from Real Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti about Modrić’s importance to the team, reports suggest that the Spanish club may be open to selling his contract to Al Hilal. This would benefit Madrid financially, especially considering Modrić’s contract expiration in summer 2024.
While the world watches, Al Hilal has its work cut out in the search for a viable substitute for Neymar. The club’s next moves could reverberate throughout international football, as they seek to maintain their competitive edge despite the loss of their Brazilian talisman.
