Neymar turning free agent – could he reunite with Messi in Miami?

November 5, 2025 Oliver Obel

Neymar’s brief stint with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia ended in early 2025 after injuries cut short his time in the Middle East. The 33-year-old then rejoined Santos in Brazil to regain fitness, but recurring knee problems have limited his playing time.

Despite those setbacks, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer still hopes to represent his country at the 2026 World Cup under head coach Carlo Ancelotti. To stay in contention, he needs regular minutes — something that might be difficult to secure in Brazil’s domestic league.

With few European clubs showing interest and Santos struggling to match his ambitions, Neymar now faces a crossroads: remain at home or test himself in Major League Soccer, where Messi’s presence continues to draw global attention.

Calculated gamble for Miami

Inter Miami are expected to have designated player slots opening as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba near retirement, creating room for another high-profile signing. But bringing in Neymar would be a major gamble.

Former U.S. men’s national team goalkeeper Brad Friedel, speaking to GOAL on behalf of Hard Rock Bet, said much would depend on how the contract is structured.

“It would be a risk on anyone’s behalf; it just depends on how you would structure the contract,” Friedel said, adding that the commercial upside could offset on-field concerns.

He noted that Neymar’s age and injury history make the move unpredictable but suggested that the Brazilian’s global following could boost MLS visibility and revenue.

A league in transition

Friedel also pointed to broader financial challenges facing Major League Soccer, saying the league must expand its commercial reach to remain sustainable. He cited the need for stronger television deals and marquee players who can elevate its profile.

The potential arrival of Neymar, Friedel suggested, could mark another step toward that goal — following the model that brought global icons like Messi, Busquets, and Alba to South Florida. For MLS, it would be another statement of intent.

A fading reunion dream

For fans nostalgic about Barcelona’s famed “MSN” trio, Neymar has called the idea of reuniting with Messi and Luis Suárez “incredible.” But Suárez, now 38, appears close to retirement, and Messi has extended his Miami contract through 2028.

Few players move the needle like Neymar, and few clubs embrace the spotlight like Inter Miami. For now, the team’s focus remains on chasing its first MLS Cup — and perhaps, quietly, preparing for another superstar to join Messi under the Florida sun.

Sources: GOAL, Reuters, BBC Sport, MLS.com