Neymar has opened up about his emotional decision to stay with Santos FC, extending his contract with the club until December. The move puts an end to speculation surrounding a potential return to European football, instead reaffirming the Brazilian star’s commitment to the club where his career began.
The 33-year-old forward initially rejoined Santos in January on a short-term deal after parting ways with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. Despite offers and interest from several high-profile European teams, Neymar has chosen to continue wearing the number 10 shirt for Santos, with an option included in his contract to extend his stay beyond the current season.
In his statement, Neymar described the decision as deeply personal. “This decision came from the heart. Santos is more than just a team; it’s my home, my roots, where my story began. Here, I grew up, and the love I feel here is immense. I can be my true self, genuinely happy.”
Reflecting on his journey, Neymar emphasized his ambition to achieve the remaining goals of his career in Brazil. “I want to achieve the remaining dreams I have in my career right here, and nothing will stop me. I may leave, I may return, but I always remain. This is where it all started, and it’s where it will never end.”
Neymar’s return has generated excitement not only among fans but also within the club’s leadership. The Santos president called the announcement a historic day for Brazilian football and a major step forward in the club’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its legacy.
He highlighted Neymar’s importance both on and off the pitch, describing him as a symbol of the club’s identity and future. “Our idol, our homegrown star, the prince wearing our number 10 shirt, is staying. This is a crucial moment in our rebuilding process, and we need Neymar both on and off the pitch. His words, ‘I go, I come back, I stay,’ perfectly capture the spirit of Santos FC’s resurgence.”
Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top scorer, with 79 goals in 128 appearances for the national team. He has also recorded 141 goals and 69 assists in 243 appearances across his time with Santos. His return to the club marks not only a reunion with his football roots but also a symbol of his enduring connection to his homeland.
While he was recalled to the national team setup earlier this year after a 17-month absence, Neymar is yet to return to action following a knee injury sustained in October 2023. The injury kept him out of Brazil’s recent World Cup qualifiers, but his focus now appears to be firmly on making an impact at Santos as he works towards full fitness.
