Neymar Junior has made headlines once again with his triumphant return to Santos FC, the club where he first captured the football world’s attention. After 12 years of playing at some of the biggest clubs globally, including Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar is back at the club where he began his professional career.
The announcement of Neymar's return was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans. On January 31, 2025, he was officially presented at Vila Belmiro, where he was welcomed with open arms and celebrated by thousands of supporters. The event featured performances from several local artists, adding to the electric atmosphere. Neymar’s presence not only reignited the passion of die-hard Santos fans but also brought back memories of his time as their star player.
Neymar, who left Santos for Barcelona back in 2013, has expressed immense joy at being back. "Quando pisei aqui e senti o carinho da torcida, me fez voltar aos 17 anos aqui no Santos, me rejuvenesceu. Estou muito feliz," he remarked, highlighting the deep connection he feels with the club and its supporters.
Despite the excitement surrounding his return, the big question looming was when he would make his first appearance back on the pitch. While many hoped he would play immediately, Neymar clarified during the press conference post-presentation, "Fisicamente, estou bem melhor. Confesso que não estou 100% ainda porque preciso de minutos, de jogos, não é só com treino que vou estar bem fisicamente de novo. Preciso de jogos e minutos, isso vou ganhar com o tempo." He noted, jokingly, "Se desse tempo, eu garantiria 30 minutinhos" for the upcoming game against São Paulo, but acknowledged he was not registered to play yet, indicating he needed additional time to prepare.
His last significant action on the pitch was marred by injuries; Neymar’s health issues have caused concern among fans and management alike. The forward did not play for over 12 months before joining Santos due to complications from injuries during his time at Al-Hilal. After more than seven matches with limited performances abroad, returning to the familiar embrace of Santos provided the relief he desperately needed. Now, Neymar is striving to regain peak fitness.
Coach Pedro Caixinha, who is eager to incorporate Neymar’s talents on the field, expressed confidence about the player's physical condition. "A condição de Neymar está muito boa," Caixinha stated, affirming his anticipation of utilizing Neymar's skills. The coaching staff is taking deliberate steps to ease him back onto the field, ensuring he gets the necessary playing time to return to form.
Looking forward, fans are eagerly anticipating Neymar’s debut, which is slated for February 5, 2025, coinciding with his 33rd birthday, against Botafogo-SP at the Vila Belmiro. This match not only marks Neymar’s much-awaited return but also serves as a symbolic reunion with his roots, where his career first flourished. Santos has upcoming matches, including the anticipated clash against São Paulo on February 1, but Neymar's participation is still unconfirmed due to registration barriers.
Throughout his career, Neymar has made his mark extensively. At Santos, he scored 136 goals and played pivotal roles in securing multiple titles, including the Copa do Brasil and Libertadores. His legacy at the club remains untarnished, and there is hope he might re-capture some of the magic which made him one of the most renowned footballers worldwide.
With high expectations and deep emotional ties, Neymar's rejoining of Santos football is poised to be nothing short of monumental as he attempts to relive the glory days with the Peixe. Supporters look forward to not just his performances but the passion and love for the game he embodies, proving he has returned not only as the star player but as the loyal son of the club.
Whether or not Neymar can regain his pre-injury form is yet to be seen, but one thing is for sure—the anticipation surrounding his return has sparked excitement among fans and players alike. The world will be watching as Neymar steps back onto the field, prepared to bring joy and hope back to Santos FC.