Brazilian superstar Neymar might be set for a sensational return to his boyhood club Santos, as his troubled spell at Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal continues to unravel. Santos executive director Marcio Calves has expressed optimistic hopes of reuniting with their former prodigy, suggesting there’s a “60% chance” of securing the forward’s services in 2025.
The 32-year-old’s tenure in Saudi Arabia has been nothing short of disastrous since his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain. Plagued by injuries, including a devastating ACL setback that kept him sidelined for over a year, Neymar has managed just seven appearances for Al-Hilal. His latest injury setback has reportedly tested the patience of the Saudi Pro League club, who are now considering not registering him for the remainder of the season.
This development has opened the door for speculation about Neymar’s future, with Santos emerging as a potential destination for the Brazilian international. The prospect of Neymar returning to the Urbano Caldeira Stadium, where he first dazzled audiences with his mesmerizing skills, has captured the imagination of football romantics worldwide.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Calves didn’t attempt to disguise Santos’s interest in their former star. There are no official negotiations with Neymar at the moment, but his return to our club is every fan’s dream,” he revealed. “Neymar’s relationship with Santos is wonderful. He started his career here and the possibility of his return depends on his desire and his performance with Al Hilal.”
The timing of such a move could prove perfect for both parties. For Neymar, who harbors ambitions of representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, a return to familiar surroundings could provide the platform needed to rejuvenate his career. Santos, meanwhile, would welcome back a player who brought them tremendous success and global recognition during his initial spell from 2009 to 2013.
The story of Neymar and Santos is deeply intertwined with Brazilian football history. It was at Santos where a teenage Neymar first emerged, following in the footsteps of legendary figures like Pelé. During his first stint with the club, he scored 136 goals in 225 appearances, leading them to their first Copa Libertadores title since 1963 and earning himself a move to Barcelona in 2013.
However, any potential return would likely require significant compromises, particularly regarding finances. Neymar’s current arrangement with Al-Hilal makes him one of the highest-paid athletes in world sport, a salary level that would be impossible for Santos to match. Yet, the emotional pull of returning to his spiritual home, combined with his apparent desire to reinvigorate his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup, could make financial considerations secondary.
The potential move also raises interesting questions about the trajectory of modern football careers. While the recent trend has seen players moving to Saudi Arabia in their prime or late prime, Neymar’s situation could represent one of the first high-profile returns from the Saudi Pro League to a traditional football heartland.
For Santos, currently competing in Serie B, Neymar’s return would represent more than just a sporting acquisition. It would be a powerful symbol of the club’s enduring ability to maintain connections with its greatest sons, while potentially providing the catalyst needed for their return to Brazil’s top flight.
As speculation continues to mount, the football world watches with interest. If realized, Neymar’s return to Santos would represent one of football’s most compelling narrative arcs – the prodigal son returning home to write the final chapters of his career where it all began.
