Neymar has extended his contract with Santos until the end of 2026 as he expects a late promotion to Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The 33-year-old, who returned to his youth club in January 2025, has not played for his country since October 2023 due to injury.
3
The attacker suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his last international appearance against Uruguay, which led to an injury-ravaged team over the next 26 months.
However, Neymar’s recent form has revived his hopes of a Brazil return after initially scoring just six goals in 24 games.
The former Barcelona star overcame the pain barrier to save Santos from relegation last season with his late-season recovery.
Neymar scored five goals and provided one assist in the club’s last five games while battling a meniscus injury.
After helping secure Santos’ place in Brazil’s top flight, the former Paris Saint-Germain striker underwent minor surgery on his left knee.
Neymar extends Santos contract
He has now extended his contract with Santos until the end of the year to give himself the best possible position to remain fully fit.
“2025 was a special and challenging year for me – a time of joy and overcoming obstacles that I was only able to overcome thanks to your love,” Neymar said in the announcement.
“The year 2026 is here and fate could not be different.
“Santos is my place. This is where I’m at home, safe and happy. And with you I want to make the rest of my dreams come true.”
3
Neymar considered retiring due to injury
Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, who has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for his national team, is struggling with his fitness.
He returned to his home country last January after playing just seven games in 18 months for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.
His recurring knee problems at Santos in 2025 even led Neymar to consider retiring from football, according to his father.
During a YouTube interview with Rafa Tecla T – Experiências reais on ESPN, Neymar Sr. said: “He has a meniscus injury, the press leaks it before we talk to him and his head goes blank. There’s so much to comprehend… I go to my son’s house. ‘So, how are you?’
“He turns to me and says, ‘I can’t take it anymore. Let’s have surgery. Dad… I don’t even know if it’s worth having surgery. As for me, I’ve had enough.'”
3
What did Ancelotti say about Neymar?
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted in October that the Seleção’s all-time leading goalscorer must be fully fit to merit a recall.
He said: “Neymar can play at the highest level in this team without any problems.
“If he is in good physical condition, given his talent he has the quality to play not only in Brazil but in any team in the world.”
Neymar, who was left out of his country’s final squad in November, is aiming to take part in a fourth consecutive World Cup.
Brazil, who face Scotland, Morocco and Haiti in Group C this summer, will also play two friendlies in March.