Neymar‘s experiment in the Saudi Pro League never reached the dream start he experienced in European leagues. The sparkle seemed to fade after only seven appearances for Al-Hilal and one lone goal.
He’s been dogged by extensive injuries and unable to meet expectations in Saudi Arabia, where manager Jorge Jesus bluntly stated, “He can no longer play at the level we are used to.” Now, the Brazilian star has decided it’s time to return to where his journey began.
Neymar’s next chapter begins at home
Fabrizio Romano reported, “Neymar has already said ‘yes’ to a Santos return with formalities expected to be completed this week.” That “yes” involves taking a significant pay cut, possibly forfeiting about $65 million if he ends his deal early with Al-Hilal. The financial hit might sting, but Santos remains the club where he first shined as a teenager. He can also recoup the losses through commercial partnerships with Santos.
Santos is the place that shaped Neymar’s flair, gave him a stage to blossom, and introduced his talent to the world. He left Santos as a rising global icon, transferring to Barcelona for a hefty sum. He later jumped for a record-breaking transfer fee to Paris Saint-Germain, then signed for Al-Hilal in a deal worth about $97.6 million, collecting a salary that soared well over $3 million per week. Yet his time in Saudi Arabia never took off. Injuries and limited game time put him on the sidelines more often than he’d like.
Now 32, Neymar isn’t done. He wants to play in an environment that fits his skills, and Santos offers him comfort and a chance at revival. The Brazilian league may lack sure European-level fireworks, but it’s home. Fans there dream of seeing him recapture his old brilliance. Santos itself hopes he can steer them toward brighter days, even though many wonder how much he can still deliver.
This move is expected to be finalized any day. If all goes smoothly, Neymar will return on his birthday, February 5, under the Santos crest he once wore so proudly. At least one can dream.
