Neymar Extends Contract with Santos Until 2026 Amidst Recovery

When Neymar returned to Santos at the beginning of 2025, following the termination of his contract with Al-Hilal, the club’s management was delighted to welcome their superstar back home. The previous year had its challenges, but ultimately, the former Barcelona star played a crucial role in ensuring the Brazilian giants remained in the top flight.

As Neymar’s contract was set to expire at the end of 2025, rumors circulated regarding a potential move to Flamengo; however, club president Marcelo Teixeira dismissed these speculations. In December, he emphasized, “Neymar’s project is aligned with next year’s World Cup. Our discussions have always centered around this. He had various options but chose to return to Santos, his home. We initially hoped to capitalize on his presence more in the first half of the year, but that did not materialize, and it is no one’s fault. He concluded the season on a high note and was decisive. Neymar’s contribution remains vital, both on and off the field. We continue to engage in dialogue and are reviewing the financial aspects to ensure his continued presence. I am optimistic that we will find a mutual agreement for his extension.”

On Tuesday, Santos officially announced that Neymar had signed a contract extension until the end of 2026. Initially, it was anticipated that he would secure a deal lasting only until this summer’s World Cup, but it seems he desires more time to demonstrate his value to Santos. Currently recovering from knee surgery, Neymar expressed his “intense love” for the club, affirming that there is no other place he would rather be.

He stated, “2025 was a year filled with special challenges for me, filled with moments of joy and resilience, which I could only navigate due to your love. That same intense love is what I strive to showcase in every match wearing the Sacred Mantle. As we enter 2026, my destination is clear—Santos is where I belong. Here, I feel at home, safe, and happy. I aspire to achieve the dreams that remain unfulfilled, alongside you.”

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Neymar is poised to be remembered as one of Brazil’s football legends, particularly after leading his country to Olympic Gold in football at the 2016 Rio Olympics. However, under Carlo Ancelotti’s management of the national team, individual reputations hold little weight. Late last year, the former Real Madrid coach expressed that he does not owe anyone a place on his squad for the upcoming World Cup.

He remarked, “When we discuss Neymar, we must also consider other players. We have to prioritize Brazil, whether that includes Neymar or not, and also potential alternatives. The final roster will be determined after the FIFA date in March. I understand the interest surrounding Neymar, but it’s important to remember that we are currently in December, with the World Cup slated for June. I will select the team going to the World Cup in May. If Neymar deserves to be there and is performing better than others, he will be included, period. I hold no obligations.”

As Neymar continues his rehabilitation following his arthroscopy, Santos is scheduled to compete against Gremio this weekend in the Campeonato Paulista. Once he regains fitness, he will have limited time to secure a place in Ancelotti’s Brazil squad, a goal he undoubtedly has in mind, having last represented his country in 2023.