Neymar has reportedly settled on a new contract with Santos, effectively squashing rumors of a transfer to Inter Miami or a return to Europe. The Brazilian star, who linked up with Santos in January 2025, is set to commit to the club until the end of the current calendar year and through to the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s Contract: Expiration Details
Per reports from Globo Sports, Neymar’s contract with Santos will last until December 31, 2026. There were moments when it seemed the 33-year-old midfielder might pursue a new venture after becoming a free agent.
Currently, he is engaged in a rehabilitation process following knee surgery and prefers to stay close to his family and friends in a familiar setting.
Financial Implications: Neymar’s Agreement with Santos
Santos is pleased to see their influential captain extend his contract, although reports indicate that Neymar’s salary is equivalent to that of “four or five regular players.” Additionally, he has an image rights deal with NR Sports that bolsters his earnings.
Having played a crucial role in preventing Santos from facing relegation, Neymar has agreed to stay following a successful 2025 season. After recovering from a hamstring injury in November, he netted five goals in seven matches, including a hat-trick against Juventude.
The prospect of Neymar embarking on a new journey in a World Cup year was widely discussed, as he needs regular playtime to secure his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for upcoming tournaments.
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World Cup Aspirations: Neymar’s Position in Brazil’s Squad
As Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, Neymar hasn’t played for the national team since September 2023, when he succumbed to a knee ligament injury. Nonetheless, he remains determined to compete for international glory once again.
“We will do everything possible, even if it seems impossible, to reclaim this World Cup for Brazil,” he expressed to the media. He further pledged, “If we reach the final, I promise to score.”
Ancelotti, the former manager of PSG, AC Milan, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, has left the door open for Neymar’s return to the national squad but has emphasized that emotional factors will not dictate his selection choices.
Neymar must consistently perform to secure his position. “We discuss Neymar, but we must also consider other players. Our focus is on Brazil’s success,” Ancelotti remarked.
“The final roster will be determined after FIFA’s announcement in March. While there’s curiosity about Neymar’s involvement, we have months to assess. I will finalize the team in May, considering who is fit and performing better than others—regardless of their names.”
The End of an MSN Reunion: Neymar Won’t Join Messi and Suarez in MLS
Neymar faces significant pressure, having missed 89 matches since joining Al Hilal in 2023. An unfortunate anterior cruciate ligament injury disrupted his lucrative contract in the Middle East, and he continues to face fitness challenges with Santos.
He has undergone a second surgery on his left knee and is currently under the care of noted Brazilian physiotherapist Eduardo Santos, known as “Doctor Miracle” for swiftly aiding players like Philippe Coutinho and Matheus Cunha in their recoveries from serious knee injuries.
Despite speculation linking him to clubs in Italy and the Premier League, Neymar has dismissed the idea of reuniting with former Barcelona teammates Messi and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami.
Rumors had circulated about reviving their famous “MSN” trio in the U.S., but any move to South Florida has now been put on hold. Nonetheless, Neymar has ample opportunities to shine in the next year ahead.
In the world of soccer, Neymar’s commitment to Santos is key not just for his career but for fans who have cherished his dynamic play. His decision to stay close to family while focusing on recovery could reinvigorate his performance and impact on both club and international stages.
