Is Neymar Returning to Santos? The Club Sends a Hint to the Brazilian Star
Santos FC has sparked rumors of a possible return of Neymar to the club where he began his football career, just as they recently secured their promotion back to the top tier of Brazilian football. After a challenging year marked by their first relegation in over a century, the Peixe has reclaimed its place among Brazil's elite, and amidst the celebrations, they surprised fans with a cryptic announcement on social media.
This Monday, Santos secured their return to Serie A after defeating Coritiba 2-0, solidifying their position as the undisputed leader of Serie B with two matches left in the season. However, what caught everyone’s attention wasn't just their sporting achievement but the announcement of the iconic number 10 jersey making its comeback for the next season. "The 10 is back," read an emotional video that chronicled the club’s history, featuring legends like Pelé and, of course, hinting at Neymar, who has been a symbol of the team.
The club's president, Marcelo Teixeira, had previously banned the use of the number 10 during their time in Serie B as a sign of respect for Santos' legacy and Pelé. Now, with promotion secured, this restriction has been lifted, sparking speculation about whether the next player to wear this iconic number could be none other than Neymar, who is set to finish his contract with Al Hilal in June 2025. Osvaldo Nico, the club’s vice president, fueled the fire by suggesting that the Brazilian star could return next year: "Neymar arrives at Santos in June. That's the conversation we're having."
Neymar, however, has been cautious about these rumors. Although he has repeatedly expressed his love for Santos, the 32-year-old player clarified that, for now, there is no formal agreement for his return. "There is no possibility of returning to Santos next year," he recently stated, noting that he still has one more year on his contract with the Saudi club. However, he did not completely close the door on a future comeback, leaving his fans hopeful.
If his return materializes, Neymar would wear the number 10 jersey for Santos for the first time, as it was previously worn by other players like Paulo Henrique Ganso and Walter Montillo during his initial stint with the club. It would be an emotional comeback, not just for the club but for all the fans who dream of seeing their prodigal son back at Vila Belmiro, where he first shined before moving on to Barcelona and later to Paris Saint-Germain. Will 2025 be the year of the long-awaited reunion? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is at an all-time high.
