MLS Gears Up for 2025 Season with Exciting New Initiatives 
Brazilian soccer superstar Neymar is reportedly in discussions with three Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, including the Chicago Fire, about a potential move from Al Hilal. This comes amid speculation about his future, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
Key Takeaways
- Neymar is in talks with three MLS teams, with Chicago Fire being one of them.
- Inter Miami, previously considered a likely destination, is not currently pursuing Neymar.
- Neymar’s contract with Al Hilal runs until June 2025, allowing him to negotiate with other teams.
- His recent injury struggles have limited his appearances and performance in Saudi Arabia.
Neymar’s Current Situation
Neymar, who joined Al Hilal in 2023, has faced a challenging time due to injuries, including a torn ACL and a hamstring issue. He has only made seven appearances for the club, scoring one goal and providing two assists. Al Hilal’s coach, Jorge Jesus, has expressed concerns about Neymar’s fitness, stating that he is not currently able to perform at his usual level.
Despite these setbacks, Neymar remains a highly sought-after player, and his potential move to MLS has generated significant interest.
Interest From MLS Teams
Reports indicate that Neymar is in preliminary talks with three MLS clubs, with the Chicago Fire having the inside track due to their discovery rights over the player. This means they have exclusive negotiation rights, which could complicate matters for other interested teams.
- Chicago Fire: The Fire are actively pursuing Neymar and have the necessary rights to negotiate.
- Other Teams: While specific names have not been disclosed, other MLS teams are also reportedly interested in signing the Brazilian star.
The Inter Miami Factor
Initially, many speculated that Neymar would reunite with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez at Inter Miami. However, the club’s new manager, Javier Mascherano, has downplayed the possibility, citing salary cap restrictions as a significant barrier to signing Neymar at this time.
Mascherano stated, "We cannot talk about Ney because we have nothing about him. Obviously, Ney is a great player, but at the moment, it’s impossible due to MLS rules."
The Road Ahead
As Neymar considers his options, the upcoming 2026 World Cup looms large. Playing in MLS could provide him with the platform to regain his form and secure a spot on Brazil’s national team for the tournament. The MLS transfer window opens on January 31, 2025, which could be a pivotal moment for Neymar’s career.
In summary, while Neymar’s future remains uncertain, the interest from MLS teams, particularly the Chicago Fire, suggests that a new chapter in his career could be on the horizon. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as developments unfold in the coming weeks.
