When Brazilian superstar Neymar’s transfer to Brazilian giant Santos after terminating with his club in Saudi Arabia at the end of January, euphoria was a fact in São Paulo. But it didn’t take long before he was injured. – I can guarantee that there was not a single headline in any media outlet that had the headline: “Oh no!! – Neymar injured… I didn’t see it coming”.
Neymar was often injured for Barcelona, for Paris Saint-Germain and for Al-Hilal.
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Neymar Jr. is in the process of extending his contract with Santos FC. According to TNT Sports Brasil and UOL Esporte, the 33-year-old star is negotiating a deal that will last until 2026, despite injury problems. The club still shows full confidence in its big star. (sells a lot of shirts and sponsorship deals)
After 8 league rounds in Brazilian Serie A, Santos Futebol Clube is second to last with only 5 points and that with the club’s most expensive footballer of all time injured.
Changed plans
When Neymar returned to Santos in January, the plan was to build up his form and return to Europe this summer. But repeated injuries have changed course. He has not played since April 17 due to a thigh injury and has only made two appearances in the Brasileirão so far. Nevertheless, he is expected back on the pitch in the Copa do Brasil next week.
The fans love him, and the club gives him unconditional support. The new deal will not only secure his future at the club, but also give him exclusive privileges:
- Three private lodges at the Vila Belmiro stadium
- Private flights
- Luxury accommodation for their entourage
- Control of 75% of sponsorship deals through their father’s company
National team comeback on the horizon?
With Carlo Ancelotti as the new manager of Brazil, Neymar’s name could resurface in the discussions. The Italian coach wants to balance youth and experience in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, and sees the former PSG star as a player who can still be decisive.
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Santos hopes to finalize the contract extension in the next few weeks. The club wants to see Neymar find his way back to top form and glow in the shirt he grew up in – and maybe also in the yellow national team shirt. We will see, and if we are to believe history, it will not happen.
