Neymar has extended his contract with Santos until December 2025, adding six months to his previous agreement. The contract also includes an option to extend until June 2026, allowing the 33-year-old forward a chance to participate in the World Cup with the Brazil national team.

Neymar celebrates after scoring for Santos in February 2025. Photo: Reuters

Neymar celebrates after scoring for Santos in February 2025. Photo: Reuters

Neymar’s decision to stay with Santos ends speculation about a potential move to Inter Miami, where Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez currently play. Previously, according to Neymar's father, his management team had been considering offers from both the US and Europe. The 33-year-old forward previously enjoyed a successful partnership with Messi and Suarez at Barcelona.

"I have made my decision by listening to my heart. Santos is not just a team, it's my home, my roots, my history, and my life," Neymar stated in an Instagram video posted on 24/6.

Neymar developed in Santos' academy before scoring 136 goals in 225 appearances for the first team between 2009 and 2013. His success continued in Europe with Barcelona, where he scored 105 goals in 186 matches, winning a Champions League title and two La Liga titles. In 2017, he set a transfer record with a $263 million USD move to PSG. In France, the 33-year-old added 118 goals in 173 matches and won 13 titles.

In 2023, Neymar transferred to Al Hilal. However, in October of the same year, he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while playing for Brazil. The injury sidelined him for over a year, preventing him from completing his contract. In early 2025, after terminating his contract with Al Hilal, the 33-year-old returned to Santos, scoring three goals in 12 matches.

Neymar's prospects of returning to peak form and participating in the 2026 World Cup remain uncertain. However, his father believes he is only lacking a bit of speed to regain his best form.

Neymar holds the record for most goals scored for the Brazil national team, with 79. He also helped the U23+3 team win the gold medal at the 2016 Olympics.

Thanh Quy (Instagram, ESPN)