Neymar makes key transfer decision in last ditch bid to rescue World Cup spot

Neymar has extended his contract with Santos through the end of 2026 as he eyes a late surge to join Brazil’s World Cup squad.

The 33-year-old, who returned to his boyhood club in January 2025, hasn’t featured for his country since October 2023 due to injury.

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The attacker ruptured his ACL in his last international appearance against Uruguay, which sparked an injury-ravaged next 26 months.

However, Neymar has revived his hopes of a Brazil recall with his recent form, having initially scored just six goals in 24 games.

The former Barcelona star played through the pain barrier to steer Santos away from relegation last season with his late-season surge.

Neymar netted five times and registered an assist in the club’s last five matches while struggling with a meniscus injury.

After helping confirm Santos’ spot in Brazil’s top-flight, the ex-Paris Saint-Germain forward underwent minor surgery on his left knee.

Neymar extends Santos deal

He has now extended his contract with Santos until the end of the year to give himself the best possible platform to remain fully fit.

“2025 was a special and challenging year for me — a time of joy and of overcoming obstacles that I was only able to face thanks to your love,” Neymar said in the announcement.

“2026 has arrived, and destiny could not be different.

“Santos is my place. Here I am at home, safe and happy. And it is with you that I want to achieve the rest of my dreams.”

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Neymar considered retiring due to injury

Brazil’s all-time top scorer, who has notched 79 goals in 128 appearances for his national team, has struggled for fitness.

He returned to his homeland last January, having made just seven appearances over 18 months for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.

His recurring knee issues while at Santos in 2025 even led Neymar to consider retiring from football, according to his father.

During a YouTube interview with Rafa Tecla T – Experiências reais, via ESPN, Neymar Sr. said: “He got a meniscus injury, the press leaks it before we talk to him, and his head goes blank. It’s so much to take in … I go to my son’s house. ‘So, how are you?’

“He turns to me and says, ‘I can’t take it anymore. Let’s operate. Dad … I don’t even know if it’s worth operating. As for me, I’ve had enough.'”

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What has Ancelotti said about Neymar?

Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti admitted in October that Seleção’s all-time leading goalscorer must be fully fit to earn a recall.

He said: “Neymar can play at his highest level in this team without any problems.

“When he is in good physical condition, he has the quality to play not only in Brazil but in any team in the world because of his talent.”

Neymar, who was omitted from his country’s most recent squad in November, is bidding to play in a fourth successive World Cup.

Brazil, who will face Scotland, Morocco and Haiti in Group C this summer, will also stage two friendly matches in March.