Palmeiras president Leila: "Neymar will not join, this club is not a medical department"

Neymar has been at the centre of transfer talk in recent days as rumors suggest that he is linked to an exit from the Middle East. With just seven games under his belt for Al Hilal, who are paying him one of the biggest salaries in football, the Brazilian seems to be heading towards a return to his homeland.

One team that will not be in the running for Neymar, however, is Palmeiras as club president, Leila Pereira, shut down any hope for fans to see the former Barcelona forward with the 'Verdao' shirt. "Neymar will not join Palmeiras, this club isn't a medical department," she told UOL. "I want someone who will come to join immediately, who can play tomorrow if the manager wishes. I won't accept us signing a player who's unfit to play."

Neymar made his comeback after a year on the sidelines due to injury by appearing in the AFC Champions League fixture against Al Ain last month. However, his return barely last a game, as he suffered a fresh injury blow in the following match, keeping him out for the next 3-5 weeks.

That said Pereira was seemingly sure Neymar is destined to return to former side Santos as she said: "Great player, but he's going to Santos." The 32-year-old began his professional career with the 'Peixe' before catching Barca's attention and completing the move to Catalunya in the 2013/2014 campaign. Neymar spent four years at Barcelona before joining PSG in the 2017/2018 season.

 

November 17, 2024