Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Neymar, has extended his contract with Santos until December, reaffirming his emotional connection with the club where his professional journey began.
The 33-year-old rejoined Santos in January on a six-month deal following the termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Since returning, Neymar has rekindled his form, having previously scored 141 goals and provided 69 assists in 243 appearances for the club.
Despite speculation about a potential return to Europe, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star opted to remain with Santos through the end of the Brazilian Serie A season, with an option to extend beyond that.
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“I made a decision and listened to my heart,” Neymar said. “Santos isn’t just my team—it’s my home, my roots, my history, and my life. It’s where I grew up, became a man, and where I’m truly loved. Here, I can be myself and be happy.
“This is where I want to fulfill the dreams that still remain in my career. Nothing will stop me. I go, I come back—and now I stay. Where it all began, and where it will never end.”
Neymar was called up to the Brazil national team in March after a 17-month absence but did not feature in World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. He last played for the national side in October 2023, when he suffered a knee injury against Uruguay. Neymar has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil.
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira hailed the renewal as a defining moment for the club.
“It’s a historic and emotional day for Brazilian football and a gift to Santos fans,” he said. “Our idol, our boy, the prince in our number 10 shirt, is staying.
“This moment is crucial to our rebuilding efforts. Neymar is essential—both on and off the pitch. His words, ‘I’m going, I’m back, I’m staying,’ are powerful and perfectly capture the spirit of Santos FC’s revival.”
