‘Let’s take it easy!’ – Neymar explains why he only signed six-month contract at Santos amid claims he’s lining up sensational Barcelona return

Neymar has explained his rationale behind only signing a six-month contract at Santos amid sensational links with a return to Barcelona.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Brazilian forward rejoined Santos on January 31, signing a contract that runs until June 2025, after mutually agreeing to terminate his agreement with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. Neymar’s spell at Al Hilal turned into a nightmare as he managed only seven appearances for the club, and suffered a torn ACL and a meniscus injury that sidelined him for over a year. Even after recovering, a fresh hamstring problem in November 2024 further delayed his comeback.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

However, Neymar rediscovered his scoring boots after converting a penalty in Santos’ 3-1 win over Agua Santa in the São Paulo State Championship on Monday evening. In addition to finding the net, he also provided an assist for Guilherme’s goal, showing glimpses of his quality.

WHAT NEYMAR SAID

Speaking on the short-term deal at Santos, Neymar’s father suggested that an extension is possible. Speaking to TNT Brazil, he said: “Our project is not just for five months, it is a contract that we are considering renewing. We didn’t come here to compete for five months, it was to give Santos the opportunity to restructure itself, to find partners for the club to rebuild itself.”

Neymar also addressed his Santos contract situation after Monday’s game, saying: “Let’s take it easy. It’s a contract we made not just between the two of us. One is helping the other. Santos opened the doors for me to reacquaint myself with football, with my joy. I didn’t sign a long contract because I didn’t know how I was going to get back, how I was going to feel in those months. Anything can happen.”

The 33-year-old forward is using his time at Santos as a stepping stone in a bid to regain both his fitness and match sharpness.

“As long as I’m on the field I will give myself 100%,” Neymar added. “Let’s take it easy, let’s wait for these moments, enjoy these games. Santos knows the love I feel for this club, the respect I have for them. It’s the beginning of a great era for Santos, I’m sure Santos will rise again and return to the top.”

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WHAT NEXT FOR NEYMAR?

It has been reported that Neymar’s ultimate goal is to return to Europe next season, using these months in Brazil as an opportunity to prove his form. His short-term deal and European ambitions have fuelled speculation about a potential return to Barcelona, where he enjoyed some of the best years of his career.

Now, with Barcelona sporting director Deco reportedly in search of a left-sided forward, Neymar could emerge as a viable option – provided he stays fit and maintains his performance levels at Santos. If the financial conditions are right, a sensational return to Camp Nou could finally materialise.