Soccer fans around the world are buzzing with excitement as Neymar has officially confirmed his return to Santos, the club where he first made a name for himself. After nearly 12 years away, the Brazilian superstar has signed a six-month contract with the team he credits for nurturing his talent and propelling him to global stardom.
This move follows Neymar’s termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal by mutual agreement, marking the end of his brief and injury-plagued stint in the Middle East. His return to Santos is viewed not only as an emotional homecoming but also as a significant step to reignite his career with the upcoming 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
On January 30, 2025, Marcelo Teixeira, Santos’ president, took to social media to express his joy at Neymar’s return. “It is time for you to come back to your people. To our home, to the club in our hearts,” he wrote, encapsulating the sentiment shared by many Santos supporters.
Neymar, now 32 years old, last donned the Santos jersey between 2010 and 2013, during which he celebrated six major trophies, including the prestigious Copa Libertadores. His dazzling performances during this time earned him accolades and facilitated his major move to Barcelona, where he solidified his status as one of soccer's elite.
Reflecting on his return, Neymar shared his heartfelt sentiments through social media, stating, “I just can't hold it in until tomorrow. My family and my friends already know my decision. I’ll sign the contract with Santos. I want to thank my fans from all over the world who have been wishing for this moment to come true for a long time.” He went on to express, “My feelings for the club and fans have never changed,” showcasing his enduring love for the club he first graced as a young prodigy.
After struggling with injuries and uncertainty at Al-Hilal, Neymar was candid about his eagerness to ignite his career by rejoining Santos. “Now I need to play again. And only a club like Santos can provide the love I need to prepare for the coming challenges,” he articulated, underlining the importance of being back on familiar ground.
Can Neymar lead Santos back to glory? The club has seen tough times, including their shocking relegation for the first time in history. Fortunately, they managed to bounce back, and Neymar’s presence could very well be the catalyzing spark needed to restore Santos to its rightful place among Brazil’s top teams. Previously, Neymar made headlines accumulating 136 goals over 225 appearances for Santos, and fans are eager to witness his return to form and see if he can reignite the magic he displayed as a teenager.
His first match back is anticipated with great excitement, set for February 5 against Botafogo, marking the beginning of what promises to be another thrilling chapter at Vila Belmiro.
Despite offers from Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire, Neymar chose to return home to Brazil, stating, “It feels like I am going back in time,” expressing the nostalgia and gratification he feels about returning to his boyhood club. This decision resonates with many fans who are desperate to see him succeed once again.
Having left Santos nearly 12 years ago to skirt off to Europe, Neymar has expressed gratitude for the memories created during his time abroad. His career milestones include stints at Barcelona and subsequent success with Paris Saint-Germain, where he became the world’s most expensive player when he transferred for $262 million.
Despite sustaining injuries and wrestling with fitness issues, the superstar's dedication to his roots shines through. Taking to social media, Neymar poignantly closed his message with, “I want to thank my fans around the world who wished for this moment to become a reality. It’s been 12 years since I left, but my feelings for the club and its supporters have never changed.” These words eloquently portray the emotional connection he has with Santos, underscoring the anticipation surrounding his imminent comeback.
Bringing his experience and flair back to Santos, Neymar will undoubtedly attract attention not only from his loyal fans but also from the international soccer community as he embarks on this promising new adventure.