New Delhi: Neymar is back where it all began. After 12 years away, the Brazilian forward made his long-awaited return to Santos, stepping onto the Vila Belmiro pitch in front of an excited home crowd. The 33-year-old rejoined the club on 31 January from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, bringing an end to a difficult spell that saw injuries limit his playing time. For Santos fans, this was a historic moment. Neymar was their golden boy, the player who led them to the 2011 Copa Libertadores before moving to Barcelona in 2013. His return comes at a crucial time for the club, as they look to re-establish themselves in Brazil’s top division after suffering relegation for the first time in their 111-year history.
Though still recovering from an ACL injury, Neymar featured in the second half of Santos’ 1-1 draw against Botafogo. After the match, he admitted he still needs time to regain full fitness but described the experience as “indescribable.”
Neymar’s return sparks excitement but fitness still a concern
Neymar jr starts his vol 2 story with santos against botafogo SP
Welcome back Ney pic.twitter.com/vME5LXvND2— wassim🇩🇿 (@Wassimbarca23) February 6, 2025
The former Barcelona and PSG star was introduced at half-time, with Santos leading 1-0. Though not at his best, Neymar showed glimpses of his skill, linking up well with his teammates. Botafogo, however, found an equaliser, denying Santos a dream return for their biggest star. After the match, Neymar spoke candidly about his fitness. “I need minutes, games. I’m not at 100% yet,” he said. “I didn’t expect to run and dribble so much tonight. I think I’ll feel better in four or five games.”
For Santos fans, his return is more than just about football. Neymar won six trophies during his first spell at the club, scoring 136 goals in 225 matches before leaving for Barcelona in 2013. Since then, he became the world’s most expensive player with a £200m move to PSG, before joining Al-Hilal in 2022. However, injuries, including an ACL tear, limited him to just seven appearances in Saudi Arabia.
Santos, once home to Brazilian legend Pelé, suffered a shock relegation in 2023 but quickly bounced back by winning Serie B last season. Now back in the top division, they hope Neymar can lead them to success once again. His presence alone is a huge boost, and fans will be eager to see him regain full fitness in the coming weeks.
Neymar made his long-awaited return to Santos after 12 years, stepping onto the Vila Belmiro pitch in an emotional moment. The Brazilian forward admitted he still needs time to regain full fitness. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
