Jan 31 (V7N) - Neymar has officially announced his return to Santos, the club where he began his professional career, after parting ways with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal. The Brazilian forward, now 32, made the announcement on social media, saying, "My feelings for the club and fans have never changed." Santos responded, welcoming him back with a message: "Your home awaits you. Your people await you."

The club will hold a grand presentation for Neymar at Estadio Urbano Caldeira on Friday, featuring performances by local musicians. His return marks a fresh start after an injury-ridden spell at Al Hilal, where he played just seven matches despite earning a reported $104 million per year.

Neymar’s stint in Saudi Arabia was marred by injuries, including a cruciate ligament tear while playing for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier. Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus recently admitted, "He can no longer play at the level we are used to." Despite offers from MLS clubs in the U.S., Neymar chose Santos, hoping to revive his career and earn a spot in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Returning to Santos presents a tough challenge, as the club only rejoined Brazil’s top division in 2024. The schedule will be demanding, with state tournaments, the Brazilian Cup, and the national championship beginning in March. However, Neymar remains determined: "Now I need to play again. And only a club like Santos can provide the love I need to prepare for the coming challenges."

Once seen as Pele’s heir, Neymar’s career has been a mix of brilliance and setbacks. He starred at Barcelona alongside Messi and Suarez, winning the 2015 Champions League. Injuries derailed his 2014 World Cup campaign, but he redeemed himself in 2016 by leading Brazil to Olympic gold. A world-record €220 million move to PSG in 2017 brought domestic success but fell short of Champions League glory.

After a turbulent departure from Paris in 2023 and an ill-fated Saudi adventure, Neymar’s return to Brazil could be his last chance to reignite his career. Santos fans will be hoping their prodigal son still has some magic left.

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