Santos supporters have been longing for the moment Neymar would walk through the gates of Vila Belmiro once again. Now that his return is official, Umbro plans to honor the occasion with a special-edition blue kit inspired by the club’s legendary 2012 third shirt. This tribute is more than a simple nod to nostalgia, though. It’s a statement of renewed hope in one of South America’s most storied clubs.
The original 2012 design earned a special place in fans’ hearts. It broke away from Santos’s iconic white home colors and added a touch of flair that reflected Neymar’s electric style of play at the time. Umbro, now at the helm of kit production, appears ready to capture that same vibrant Neymar energy for the 2025 release.
A tribute to the past, a celebration of the present
While many supporters remember the old Nike edition’s sleek blue look, Umbro expects to bring modern touches to the new version. Expect slight tweaks in collar design and fabric technology. Umbro’s brand manager Dal Pogetto, states, “This shirt has always been a request from Santos fans and the arrival of Neymar Jr has turned this launch into a real mission.” Those words reflect the club’s determination to blend tradition and innovation.
Speculation around global demand is already spreading for the iconic kit worn during the club’s third consecutive Campeonato Paulista title. International retailers have noted a surge in inquiries, and the club has promised a sizable stock to meet that interest.
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the kit stands as a symbol of Neymar’s lasting bond with Santos. He rose to global stardom while wearing these colors, carrying the club’s name to new heights. He was even short-listed for the Ballon d’Or that year. With fans still buzzing about his homecoming, the announcement of a retro-inspired blue kit couldn’t come at a better time.
Santos’s choice of blue may also be a reminder that the club’s identity is more than just black and white stripes. As Neymar prepares for the next chapter of his career, this special kit will serve as a tangible reminder of where his journey began.
