Neymar “Rediscovering Joy” Following Return to Boyhood Club Santos

Neymar says he’s rediscovering his love for football after returning to his boyhood club, Santos, on a short-term contract.

The 33-year-old recently ended a 16-month goal drought, scoring a penalty in Santos’ 3-1 victory over Agua Santa.

“I’m happy to be playing again. I feel I’m improving,” Neymar commented, acknowledging that he’s still working towards full fitness after an injury-plagued stint with Al-Hilal. He expressed relief at scoring and dedicated the goal to his fans and family.

Neymar’s time at Al-Hilal was cut short after just seven appearances due to a knee injury, despite the Saudi club paying a hefty £77.6m for him from Paris St-Germain in August 2023.

Neymar’s career began at Santos in 2009, where he scored 136 goals and provided 64 assists in 225 matches before moving to Barcelona in 2013.

His successful spells at Barcelona and PSG followed, yielding numerous trophies.

He also surpassed Pele as Brazil’s top male goalscorer, but his recent injury has kept him off the national team pitch since October 2023.

Neymar expressed his long-held desire to return to Santos, stating, “We’re helping each other, Santos are helping me, they’ve opened doors for me to rediscover soccer, to rediscover joy.” His current contract runs until June 30th, a shorter term chosen because of uncertainty about his recovery and form.

He added, “Let’s enjoy these moments, it’s the start of a great era for Santos.”