Neymar is set to return to Santos, his boyhood club in Brazil, the club’s president has confirmed.
The 32-year-old and Al Hilal mutually agreed to terminate his contract, allowing the former Barcelona star to return to the Série A club on a free transfer.
Injuries limited Neymar to just seven appearances following his £77.6 million move from PSG in 2023 and is reportedly giving up £57m in unpaid wages.
Neymar return to Santos confirmed after contract terminated
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira wrote on Instagram: “It seems like yesterday, time flies by so fast. The time has come to build our new story. Come back home, we are with open arms!
“I remember, as if it were yesterday, when our eternal captain Zito, together with Alemao, came to tell me about yet another star discovered by the dearly missed Betinho. Neymar was his name. A name as different as his talent. And what talent. What a pleasure it was to see this boy grow up and become the genius who conquered Santos, Brazil and the world.
“You, Neymar, said goodbye to Vila to make your dreams come true. But you left a promise that we will never forget: ‘I’m going, but I’ll be back.’ Remember? I’m sure this phrase has stayed with you all this time.
“The moment has come, Neymar. The time has come for you to return to your people. To your home, to our beloved club. Welcome, boy Ney! Boy from Vila! Come and be happy again wearing the sacred mantle. The Santos nation awaits you with open arms.”
