Brazilian forward Neymar described his return to Santos as an “indescribable” feeling after stepping onto the pitch for the club for the first time in 12 years. The 33-year-old rejoined his boyhood team on January 31 from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, marking a highly anticipated homecoming since his departure for Barcelona in 2013.
Making his return in front of a packed Estádio Vila Belmiro, Neymar took to the field at halftime with Santos leading 1-0. Despite still recovering from injury, he showed glimpses of his brilliance in the second half as Botafogo fought back to secure a 1-1 draw. After the match, Neymar spoke about the emotions of playing for Santos again.
“I love Santos,” he said. “I have no words to describe what I felt tonight when I stepped onto this pitch again. I need minutes, I need games. I’m not at 100% yet, and I didn’t expect to run and dribble so much tonight. I think I’ll feel better after four or five games.”
Following the final whistle, several Botafogo players and staff members approached Neymar for photos, highlighting the respect and admiration he continues to command in Brazilian football.
Neymar first rose to prominence at Santos, winning six major trophies during his initial spell, including the prestigious 2011 Copa Libertadores. By the time he left for Barcelona in 2013, he had scored 136 goals in 225 appearances, all before turning 21.
His career took him to Europe, where he became the most expensive footballer of all time when Paris Saint-Germain signed him from Barcelona in a record-breaking £200 million deal in 2017. However, after moving to Saudi Arabia in 2022, Neymar’s time with Al-Hilal was marred by injury, with a torn anterior cruciate ligament limiting him to just seven appearances.
Meanwhile, Santos, the historic club of Brazil legend Pelé, suffered a major setback in 2023 when they were relegated from the top division for the first time in their 111-year history. However, they bounced back immediately, winning Serie B to regain their place in the top flight.
Now back where it all began, Neymar hopes to help restore Santos to former glory.