Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Neymar, has extended his stay with Santos until the end of the year, renewing his contract with the club where his career began.
The 33-year-old rejoined Santos in January on a six-month deal after parting ways with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Now, he has committed to the club through December, with an option to extend further.
Neymar has made 243 appearances for Santos, scoring 141 goals and registering 69 assists. Before signing the extension, he had been linked with a return to Europe, but ultimately chose to remain in Brazil.
“I made a decision and listened to my heart,” said Neymar. “Santos is not just my team — it’s my home, my roots, my history, and my life. This is where I became a man, where I am truly loved, and where I can be myself and happy.
“This is where I want to fulfil the dreams that still remain in my career. Nothing will stop me. I go, I come back, and now I stay — where it all began and where it will never end.”
Although Neymar was recalled to the Brazil squad in March after a 17-month absence, he did not feature in the World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. He remains on 79 goals in 128 appearances for his country, last playing in October 2023 when he suffered a serious knee injury against Uruguay.
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira hailed the contract renewal as a milestone moment for the club and Brazilian football.
“It’s a historic and remarkable day, a gift for Santos fans,” Teixeira said. “Our idol, our boy, the prince with the number 10 shirt, stays.
“This is a vital step in our rebuilding process. Neymar is essential — both on and off the pitch. His words, ‘I’m going, I’m back, I’m staying,’ capture the spirit of our journey and our resurgence.”
