Neymar Extends Contract with Santos Until 2026

Santos has announced that Neymar will remain with the club until the end of 2026.

Initially, Neymar’s contract was set to expire on December 31, 2025. However, after playing a pivotal role in helping Santos retain their top-flight status, the Brazilian forward has agreed to a new contract that is expected to be officially announced shortly.

At 33 years old, Neymar was in talks to sign a deal that would extend until June 10, coinciding with the start of the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Nonetheless, Santos recently released a video on social media that hinted at a longer-term agreement.

The video, which featured a Santos jersey hanging from a goal net at Vila Belmiro Stadium, included the phrase “the time is almost here” alongside the ‘June 10’ date, followed by an error message. It concluded with the updated date of ‘December 31, 2026.’

Since rejoining his boyhood club a year ago, Neymar has made a significant impact, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists in 28 matches.

Despite facing injury challenges that limited his participation to half of Brazil’s Serie A games, Neymar managed to secure eight league goals, four of which came in crucial final rounds, ultimately aiding Santos in avoiding relegation.

A pressing concern in Brazil is Neymar’s availability for the upcoming World Cup. Having recently undergone minor surgery on his left knee, Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti emphasized that the former Barcelona star must be in peak condition to compete in the tournament.

As Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar is eager to participate in this prestigious event. However, he has not represented the national team since suffering an ACL tear in his left knee during World Cup qualifying in October 2023.