Neymar has confirmed his eagerly awaited return to Santos, the club where he first rose to prominence, as he signs a short-term deal to rejuvenate his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 32-year-old striker's imminent arrival has ignited excitement among fans, who have prepared a welcome party at the Vila Belmiro Stadium, complete with concerts and a significant display reading, “The prince is back,” according to AP News.

Neymar's return comes shortly after he mutually parted ways with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, where he played only seven matches due to an injury that sidelined him for an extended period. His time in Saudi Arabia was plagued by physical issues, including a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, which hampered his performance since his transfer last August for €90 million (approximately $98.5 million). Remarkably, during his tenure at Al-Hilal, he could only find the net once, underscoring the frustrations of both parties involved.

Following a decade-long absence from Santos, where Neymar initially made his mark as a talent destined for greatness, he expressed that “only Santos can give me the love that I need” as he looks to revitalize his career and regain his form. This sentiment resonated strongly in a heartfelt message he shared via social media, stating, “My feelings for the club and fans have never changed,” as reported by CNN.

His move back to Santos marks a significant return, especially after a challenging period during his time with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he was often overshadowed by his contemporaries, notably Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Despite achieving considerable success, including five league titles and a Champions League trophy, Neymar sought a new beginning at Santos, a club that celebrated his earlier achievements.

The club, excited about his return, has already begun preparations, selling merchandise featuring Neymar's name and planning a reception that recognizes his storied legacy. Fans in Santos are eagerly awaiting his on-pitch return, hoping it will rejuvenate not just the club but also lift spirits in a city that has faced challenges in recent years, notably following the death of the legendary Pele.

The Santos club issued a statement welcoming Neymar back, emphasizing that his return symbolized hope and renewed energy for football in the region. Neymar, who previously made 225 appearances and scored 138 goals for Santos, aims to lead the team in their upcoming state championship and further enhance his status in Brazilian football as the national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.

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