Brazilian club Santos renewed the contract of their star Neymar Junior during the final days of last year, extending the partnership between the two parties until December 31, 2026, in a move that reflects a mutual desire to continue the journey despite the doubts and health challenges surrounding the player's career.

Neymar, the former Barcelona star, decided to continue with the team where his football career began, after recently undergoing surgery, with a single goal in mind: to reach the next World Cup in the United States, even though this dream currently seems very difficult. Between moments of hesitation and a desire to escape suffering, in the end, the love of football and ambition triumphed, leading Brazil towards a global title, a trophy he has yet to win.

Despite the crowd pressure, coach Carlo Ancelotti has not relied on Neymar since taking charge of the Brazilian national team, making the contract renewal and surgery part of a final attempt to regain physical readiness and psychological balance, and to convince the Italian coach of his ability to continue as an influential player in modern football, after even the player himself had doubts during recent difficult periods.

Neymar played a decisive role in keeping Santos away from the threat of relegation to the second division, after club president Marcelo Teixeira bet on his recovery from his experience in the Saudi league. This move achieved two goals: saving the team and emotionally and technically reintegrating Neymar with the club. Teixeira said, "It was a matter of feeling and credibility."

Neymar described his decision to renew the contract and undergo surgery as "the last mission," affirming that the World Cup, which could be Brazil's sixth in history, is one of the main motivations to continue his career, alongside his desire to give back to Santos after the gamble of bringing him back to Brazilian football.

Neymar received widespread praise from Santos fans after playing crucial weeks while suffering from knee pain, contributing to saving his team during a critical phase, which rekindled the warmth between him and the stands, prompting him to accept continuing for an additional season. The player revealed that he confessed to his father during the toughest moments that the end was near, before deciding to push himself, play the last matches, and secure the team's survival.

Neymar's return and continuation have helped bring Santos back to the forefront, overcoming the image reflected by their low standing in the Brazilian league, as the number of sponsors doubled and the club began a new phase of strengthening the squad, most notably by signing Gabi Gol, as part of a plan to build a competitive team.

Off the pitch, Neymar continued his strong commercial presence, as in 2025 he was the Brazilian athlete most associated with sponsors, linked to 14 brands, surpassing Vinicius Junior. Neymar's family also strengthened their symbolic connection to the club after purchasing the "Pelé" brand, giving the number 10 jersey an additional historic dimension.

Neymar, for whom money is not a concern, continues to seek football glory, placing all his bets on regaining his shine and achieving the greatest dream before the curtain falls on his career.