Honestly, it’s hard to remember a time when Neymar wasn't the most talked-about person in Brazil. You either love the flair or you’re exhausted by the drama. There’s really no middle ground with him.
He’s 33 now. In football years, that’s basically middle-aged. Most players are starting to look at MLS retirement homes or coaching badges at this point, but Neymar? He’s currently back at Santos, trying to prove he isn't finished.
It hasn’t been easy.
People forget how close he came to walking away. His father actually admitted recently that the mental toll of the injuries—the ACL tear in 2023, the meniscus issues in 2025—nearly pushed him to retirement. He was tired. You could see it in his eyes during those long months of rehab. But he didn't quit. Instead, he took a massive pay cut to return to where it all started.
The Santos Redemption and the "Luxury" Substitute Role
When brazilian football player Neymar returned to Santos in early 2025, the club was a mess. They were flirting with relegation, and the fans were losing hope. He wasn't the same lightning-fast kid who left for Barcelona in 2013. He was slower. A bit heavier, maybe.
But the vision? That hasn't aged a day.
👉 See also: Ja Morant Height: Why the NBA Star Looks Bigger Than He Actually Is
He basically dragged Santos away from the drop zone single-handedly in late 2025. He scored against Sport Recife and Juventude when the pressure was suffocating. It wasn't about the step-overs anymore; it was about being the smartest guy on the pitch. Now, he’s signed an extension through December 2026.
What Ancelotti Really Thinks
The big question everyone asks is: will he be at the World Cup?
Carlo Ancelotti, who took over the Seleção, has been pretty blunt. He doesn’t care about the name on the back of the jersey. He wants fitness. Neymar knows this, which is why there’s talk of him accepting a "luxury substitute" role.
Imagine it.
The game is tied at 0-0 in the 70th minute. You look at the bench, and you have the all-time leading scorer for Brazil sitting there, waiting. It’s a different kind of weapon. He doesn't need to run 12 kilometers a game anymore. He just needs one moment of magic.
✨ Don't miss: Hulk Hogan Lifting Andre the Giant: What Really Happened at WrestleMania III
The Reality of the "Party" Reputation
Critics like Emerson Leão have been brutal. They say he’s not an example for anyone. They point to the Dubai penthouses and the poker games.
But look at the numbers.
- Santos (First stint): 136 goals.
- Barcelona: 105 goals (and that legendary MSN trio).
- PSG: 118 goals (despite missing half the games).
- Brazil: 79 goals (surpassing Pelé).
You don't get those stats by just "partying." You get them by being a generational talent who happens to live a very loud life. He’s always been an artist in a world that wants him to be a soldier.
The Physical Decline is Real
We have to be honest here. His body is struggling to keep up with his brain.
He underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee just this past December. He’s projected to return in February 2026. That gives him exactly four months to prove to Ancelotti that he belongs on the plane. It’s a race against time. If his muscular reaction isn't there, talent won't save him this time.
🔗 Read more: Formula One Points Table Explained: Why the Math Matters More Than the Racing
Business Beyond the Pitch
Even if he never kicks a ball again, Neymar is set. His company, NR Sports, is a juggernaut. They just pulled in a $15 million windfall from his latest Santos deal. He’s got the $54 million Bugatti penthouse in Dubai. He’s basically a walking corporation.
But you can tell the money isn't the point right now.
He wants that one trophy that has eluded him. The one that Messi finally got.
What You Should Watch For Next
If you’re following the brazilian football player Neymar and his journey toward the 2026 World Cup, the next few months are everything. Here is how to track his progress realistically:
- Monitor the February Return: Keep an eye on his first three matches back with Santos. If he’s subbing off early with muscle tightness, the World Cup dream is likely over.
- Check the March Friendlies: If Ancelotti leaves him out of the March international window, it’s a massive signal that the "New Brazil" is moving on without him.
- Watch the Assist Stats: Don't look for goals. Look for "Shot-Creating Actions." That’s where Neymar still ranks in the 99th percentile globally. If he’s still creating 6+ chances per game, he’s indispensable.
- Follow the Santos Standings: If Santos stays in the top half of the table, the environment will be stable enough for him to focus on fitness rather than just survival.
The story of Neymar isn't over yet, but the ink is drying. Whether it's a fairytale ending in a gold jersey or a quiet exit at the Vila Belmiro, he’s already changed the game forever.