SANTOS, Brazil — Neymar made an emotional return to his childhood team on Friday, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of Santos supporters. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric with a concert and a display of fireworks celebrating his arrival, which was marked by an electronic banner proclaiming, “The prince is back.” The 32-year-old signed a six-month contract, with the option for an extension in the future, reflecting his desire to make a mark at the club once more.
Neymar revealed that his decision to return was partly influenced by his dissatisfaction at Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, where he had limited playing time. He expressed readiness to contribute to Santos, noting that he could play at least 30 minutes in an upcoming match, pending approval from the local soccer authorities. Under the pouring rain, around 20,000 fervent fans filled the Vila Belmiro Stadium to show their support for the Brazilian star.
His arrival included a festive three-hour event featuring performances from local artists, culminating in a heartfelt message from Neymar. “I am very happy. We lived great moments here. There’s still a lot that could come,” he stated on the field. During a press conference, Neymar acknowledged that adapting to life in Saudi Arabia had its challenges, particularly with him struggling to regain regular playing time since recovering from an ACL injury which had sidelined him for nearly a year.
“Some decisions are not about soccer logic,” Neymar commented on his journey back to Santos. He admitted that he began feeling disillusioned during training sessions at Al-Hilal, prompting him to make a swift decision to return home, supported by his father and agent. He emphasized that the return to Santos felt like a “rescue” for his passion for the game, and expressed gratitude that the club provided him with this opportunity.
Neymar mentioned that it was premature to discuss extending his contract up until the 2026 World Cup, which he intends to compete in as his final tournament. “I am going after this World Cup trophy in any way I can. I have goals,” he remarked, highlighting his ambition to secure his legacy further as Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer with 79 goals.
Before officially joining his teammates, Neymar first set foot at the Santos training facility. He arrived in São Paulo state and requested a brief period of rest before venturing to Santos via helicopter. Outside the 20,000-seat stadium, fans were eagerly purchasing banners that echoed the sentiment of his comeback. Vibrant murals, inspired by AI, celebrated Neymar’s return, depicting him more mature and adorned with a crown, a significant nod in a city that once heralded legend Pelé.
In a notable development, Neymar opted to wear Pelé’s iconic No. 10 jersey, a significant honor that he expressed deep respect for in a video shared by Santos. His previous contract with Al-Hilal was amicably terminated this week, following a challenging period where he played only seven matches since signing with them.
Neymar’s past with top clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain wasn’t without controversy, but he hopes to find affection from fans in his hometown. Messages of congratulations flooded in from former players, including Luis Suárez and Andres Iniesta, as they welcomed him back.
During his initial stint with Santos, Neymar achieved remarkable success, netting 138 goals across 225 appearances and contributing to the team’s six championships. This return is seen as a rejuvenation for the club, especially after difficult experiences, like relegation, faced in recent years. Local fans remain hopeful that his presence can reignite the spirit of Santos Football Club.
Yet, there’s a recognition that the return comes with expectations. “He needs to know that people will want him to perform,” noted resident Anderson Souza, reflecting the sentiment that while Neymar is adored, he must deliver on the field. Neymar, aware of the pressure, affirmed his commitment: “I am not here to take a stroll; I came after my happiness as a soccer player and to help Santos.”
