Rio De Janeiro: The announcement was made on Tuesday, June 24, sparking excitement among fans who have been eager to see him continue his homecoming journey. The 33-year-old, who returned to Santos earlier this season after the mutual termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League Al-Hilal, has agreed to continue representing his boyhood club. He has since been focused on regaining full fitness and contributing to the team’s campaign in the Brazilian Serie A.

“I made a decision and listened to my heart,” said Neymar. “Santos is not just my club, it’s my home, my roots, my story, and my life. Here I was a boy who became a man, and I am truly loved. I can be myself there, truly happy, and it is here that I want to fulfill the dreams that are still missing in my career. And nothing will stop me. I go, I come back, and I stay. Where it all began, where it’s never going to end,” he added.

Neymar made his highly anticipated return to Santos after more than a decade away, following stints with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Al-Hilal. Despite dealing with injury setbacks in recent months, his presence has been seen as a major boost for the club both on and off the pitch.

“It is a historic and remarkable day for Brazilian football, a gift for the fans of Santos FC.” Said club president Marcelo Teixeira.

The short-term deal guarantees Neymar will be available for the remainder of the Brazilian Serie A, and it is reported that the deal includes the option to extend his contract through the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.