Neymar commits to Santos until the end of 2026 after a difficult but productive return season. The forward plays through injury to score vital goals, then needs knee surgery on a damaged meniscus. Neymar,
now 33, targets a comeback for Brazil at this year’s World Cup and speaks about unfinished dreams with the club.
The new contract extension keeps Neymar at his boyhood team for another year after rejoining in January 2025. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player says Santos still matches personal ambitions. Neymar describes the club as a place where important goals remain, linking personal targets with the team’s plans on and off the pitch.
Neymar returns to Santos in January 2025 and quickly becomes central to the relegation battle. Despite ongoing knee issues, Neymar scores five goals in the final five league matches. Those contributions help Santos avoid dropping from Serie A. The performances come while Neymar manages pain, which later leads to surgery on the meniscus last month.
The operation follows months of discomfort but offers hope of full fitness later in 2026. Medical staff expect Neymar to resume training once recovery targets are met. That timeline is important, as Neymar aims to rejoin Brazil’s squad for the World Cup. Neymar has not appeared for the Selecao since 2023, which increases the importance of this return.
Ele fica. pic.twitter.com/ZZIdHmhIr3Santos FC (@SantosFC) January 6, 2026
2025 was a special and challenging year for me, he told Santos' media channels.Moments of joy and overcoming, which I was only able to face thanks to your love. An intense love, which I also feel and try to show in each game. 2026 has arrived, and the destination could not be different. Santos is my place. Here, I am at home, safe and happy. And it is with you that I want to conquer the dreams that are missing.
The forward links personal motivation with the supporters, highlighting emotional ties to the Vila Belmiro crowd. Neymar stresses that each appearance is a chance to repay backing from stands and staff. The club, rebuilding after recent struggles, positions Neymar as a key figure. That strategy combines commercial impact with on-field leadership for the squad.
Having Neymar, our Prince, with us until the end of the year shows that our project to rebuild the club and our football remains firm, with respect to the processes and consolidation of credibility, added Santos president Marcelo Teixeira. We are on the right track. So, let's move on! Fans, we count on you.
Neymar’s contract to 2026, ongoing rehabilitation and stated ambition give Santos a clear focal point. The club keeps a major figure for the next campaign, while Brazil tracks recovery ahead of the World Cup. Supporters see stability after a tense survival race, with both Neymar and Marcelo Teixeira stressing long-term rebuilding at Santos.
