Neymar is set to make his highly anticipated return to Santos FC on February 5, 2025, coinciding with his 33rd birthday.
The star forward is scheduled to face Botafogo-SP at 21:35 local time at the iconic Vila Belmiro, and the match marks the beginning of his comeback after terminating his contract with Al-Hilal, Saudi Arabia.
Having trained intensively and reportedly appearing "slim," Neymar has impressed Santos staff as he prepares to showcase his skills once more.
Neymar's participation has the potential to ignite not only the fans' enthusiasm but also his aspirations to rejoin the Brazilian national team as World Cup Qualifiers near.
With hopes of appearing for the national squad under coach Dorival Júnior's guidance, Neymar aims for peak performance over the coming weeks, with the match against Botafogo seen as the starting point for this new chapter.
This afternoon's match ensures a festive atmosphere as Santos FC expects nearly 73,000 fans, with tickets already selling out and special initiatives planned to honor their idol's return.
Among these celebrations, Santos has partnered with Sem Parar to cover tolls for fans traveling to Santista Bay, highlighting the club's commitment to enhancing the matchday experience.
Following Neymar's return, Santos is poised for two tough away fixtures against Novorizontino and Corinthians, making this match even more consequential for the team.
On social media, Neymar's girlfriend Bruna Biancardi shared her support through heartfelt messages and romantic posts, creating additional buzz around the upcoming game.
With Neymar's physical condition and skills being the focal point, fans and players alike are eager to witness his performance and anticipate what the future holds for him on the field.
His short-term contract with the club—valid until June 30, 2025—permits him to appear for all domestic competitions, with expectations of participating across multiple matches, should Santos advance through the tournament stages.
Overall, this historical birthday match is laden with expectations, forming the backdrop for Neymar's return to his roots and reaffirming his dedication to regaining his former glory.