Neymar: Inside the Life and Career of a Football Superstar

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, universally known as Neymar, remains one of football’s most compelling figures. At 34, he’s navigating a pivotal chapter—returning to his boyhood club Santos, battling injuries, and weighing the possibility of retirement. This article delves into his current journey, career highlights, and what lies ahead as he eyes the 2026 World Cup.

A Homecoming with High Stakes

Neymar rejoined Santos in January 2025 after a challenging stint at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where injuries and limited playing time marred his tenure . His return was nothing short of emotional: thousands of fans gathered at Vila Belmiro, fireworks lit the sky, and chants like “The prince is back” echoed through the stadium . The move was both a personal and professional reset, with Neymar accepting a significantly reduced salary—just 2.4% of his Al Hilal earnings—to ease Santos’s financial burden .

In his first match back on February 6, 2025, Neymar came on as a substitute in a 1–1 draw and earned Man of the Match honors . He scored his first goal ten days later and added an assist in a 3–1 win over Água Santa, again earning Man of the Match . His presence revitalized Santos both on and off the pitch, boosting ticket sales and merchandise revenue .

Career Highlights and Records

Neymar’s career is studded with achievements across Brazil, Spain, France, and Saudi Arabia. He began at Santos, winning the Copa Libertadores in 2011 and several domestic titles . At Barcelona, he formed part of the famed “MSN” trio, winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League . His time at Paris Saint-Germain added multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cups . In Saudi Arabia, he helped Al Hilal secure the Saudi Pro League title in 2023–24 .

Internationally, Neymar has become Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances . He won the FIFA Puskás Award in 2011, the Confederations Cup Golden Ball in 2013, and Olympic gold in 2016 . His records include being the most expensive transfer ever, top assist provider in a Champions League season, and the youngest Brazilian to reach 100 caps .

Injury Struggles and Recovery

Neymar’s career has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries. A serious ACL tear in October 2023 nearly led him to retire, a period he described as mentally devastating . After a long rehabilitation, he briefly returned to Al Hilal before moving back to Santos .

In December 2025, Neymar underwent knee surgery and began rehabilitation in early January 2026 . He has since returned to training and made a recent appearance in the Campeonato Paulista, providing an assist despite a scare from a heavy challenge .

The Road to the 2026 World Cup

Neymar’s primary goal remains representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup. Santos and his camp are in advanced talks to extend his contract through the tournament . Santos president Marcelo Teixeira has expressed confidence that Neymar will stay until the World Cup .

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar’s inclusion will depend solely on form and fitness. “When I announce the squad in May, if Neymar deserves to go, if he’s well… he will play the World Cup, period,” Ancelotti stated . Neymar’s recent season stats—8 goals and 1 assist in 19 appearances for Santos, plus 2 goals and 3 assists in World Cup qualifiers—will be under scrutiny .

Retirement on the Horizon?

Amid these developments, Neymar has hinted that he may retire by the end of 2026. In a recent interview, he said he’s living “year by year” and might decide to hang up his boots in December . He emphasized that his future will be guided by his physical and emotional state, and his heart .

What’s Next for Neymar?

Neymar’s next steps are clear yet fraught with uncertainty. He must:

• Continue his rehabilitation and regain match fitness.
• Secure consistent playing time at Santos.
• Prove his form to Ancelotti ahead of the World Cup squad announcement in May.
• Decide whether to extend his career beyond 2026 or retire.

“I’m living year by year,” Neymar said. His path forward depends on his body, his heart, and whether he can still perform at the highest level.

Neymar’s journey is at a crossroads. His return to Santos has rekindled hope, but injuries and age cast long shadows. The 2026 World Cup may be his final stage—or a triumphant farewell. Either way, the football world watches closely.