Neymar has officially confirmed returning to his boyhood Brazilian club Santos following his departure from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, where his 17-month stint was marked by injuries.
The Brazilian superstar’s homecoming represents a crucial final opportunity to revive his declining career. His impressive international record stands at 79 goals across 128 appearances for the national team.
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Despite interest from American MLS clubs, Neymar opted to return to his roots, aspiring to secure a spot in Brazil‘s squad for the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
“I will sign a contract with Santos Futebol Clube,” the 32-year-old Neymar wrote in a post on X, to which the club replied, “Your home awaits you. Your people await you.”
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star made only seven appearances and moved to Al Hilal in August 2023. However, his stint at the Riyadh-based club was marred by a severe cruciate ligament injury in his left knee, sustained during a 2026 World Cup qualifier, resulting in a year-long absence.
His attempted comeback was further hindered by recurring hamstring and knee problems, preventing his return to competitive football.
At Santos, he confronts significant obstacles, as the club has only recently regained its top-flight status in 2023 following relegation.
While his arrival will generate immense excitement amongst Santos supporters, it appears unlikely that Neymar can recapture his previous form and excellence.
In his early professional days, he was viewed as the successor to Pele.
His impressive record of 136 goals in 225 matches for Santos led to his Barcelona transfer in 2013. There, he formed a formidable attacking unit with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, culminating in their Champions League victory against Juventus 3-1 in Berlin in 2015.
He achieved a significant milestone in 2016, converting the decisive penalty that secured Brazil’s men’s football gold medal at the Rio Olympics.
Qatar-backed Paris Saint-Germain acquired him from Barcelona in 2017 for a record-breaking 220 million euros ($230 million).
