Frank Christian
Neymar’s future at Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League has been the topic of much discussion lately. The Brazilian player has faced significant time away from the pitch due to injury and has been linked to a return to Brazil later in his career.
Currently, he is slated to participate in the Club World Cup set for summer 2025, which features a revamped structure.
This new format will introduce 32 teams divided into eight groups, paralleling the modern international World Cup style, with half the teams advancing to the knockout phase.
Assuming Neymar remains with Al Hilal during this tournament in the United States, what exciting matchups could be anticipated?
Al Hilal’s Position in the Draw
Al Hilal is placed in Pot 3 out of 4. This ensures they will not be drawn against teams like Ulsan HD, Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, Monterrey, Leon, Boca Juniors, or Botafogo.
Understanding Club World Cup Pots
Each group in the Club World Cup consists of one club from Pot 1, one from Pot 2, one from Pot 3, and one from Pot 4.
Being in Pot 3 means Al Hilal will contend against one team from each of the other pots.
Potential Opponents for Neymar at the Club World Cup
In Pot 1, Neymar might encounter his former team, Paris Saint-Germain. Even though Barcelona won’t be participating, Neymar could face Real Madrid, a club he notoriously challenged during many El Clasico matches.
Al Hilal might also face several Brazilian teams. While Botafogo cannot be drawn against them due to both being in Pot 3, they could potentially meet Flamengo, Fluminense, or Palmeiras from Pot 1.
The prospect of facing Palmeiras is particularly intriguing, especially after their president made critical comments regarding Neymar’s injury issues amidst rumors of a return to Santos or other clubs in Brazil.
If Al Hilal is grouped with Pot 4’sInter Miami, Neymar could reunite with old Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, as well as midfielder Sergio Busquets and new Miami coach Javier Mascherano.
Complete List of Club World Cup Pots
- Pot 1: Man City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, Flamengo, Palmeiras, River Plate, Fluminense
- Pot 2: Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, FC Porto, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, Juventus, Salzburg
- Pot 3: Al Hilal, Ulsan HD, Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, Monterrey, Leon, Boca Juniors, Botafogo
- Pot 4: Urawa Red Diamonds, Al Ain, Hope of Tunis, Mamelodi Sundowns, Pachuca, Seattle Sounders, Auckland City, Inter Miami
