Neymar arrives to be Santos' star player on their return to the Serie A of Brazil. His contract is short but the club will try to extend it until 2026. The star creative player returns home in search of a career comeback, after suffering from serious injuries in recent seasons.
"The time has come, Neymar. The time has come for you to return to your people, your home, our favourite club. Welcome, boy Ney. Boy from the Village. Come and be happy again with the sacred mantle. The Santos nation awaits you with open arms", said Teixeira in a video on Instagram, anticipating the club's own announcement.
Neymar's debut for Santos should take place on his birthday, February 5th, when he turns 33. His new club face Botafogo at Vila Belmiro in the seventh round of Paulistao.
Since the 2022 World Cup, Neymar has only played 20 games in just over two years. Signed by Al Hilal for 90 million euros in August 2023, the attacking midfielder made just seven official appearances for the Saudi club, with one goal and two assists.
Passed over by coach Jorge Jesus, Neymar wasn't even registered for the Saudi League's 2024/25 season. The Brazilian has only played in two AFC Champions League matches this season, against Al-Ain and Esteghlal.
Neymar is one of the great players in Santos' history. The star made his mark at the Vila between 2009 and 2013, with 225 appearances, 136 goals and 63 assists. He won six titles for the club: Copa Libertadores (2011), Recopa Sudamericana (2012), Copa do Brasil (2010) and three Paulistas (2010, 2011 and 2012).
Sold to Barcelona in 2013, Neymar formed part of the legendary 'MSN' trio (alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez) and shone at the Spanish club, winning two LaLiga titles and the Champions League.
PSG bought the Brazilian in 2017 for 222 million euros, the most expensive transfer in football history.