‘I followed my heart’: Neymar extends Santos stay by six more months

Neymar has extended his contract with Brazilian club Santos until the end of 2025, as he seeks to regain form ahead of next year's World Cup.

"I made a decision and followed my heart. Santos isn't just my team – it's my home, my roots, my history, and my life," said the 33-year-old forward in a statement released by the club.

Neymar began his professional career at Santos before high-profile moves to Barcelona and later Paris Saint-Germain. Following an injury-plagued stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal – where he featured in just seven matches over 17 months – he returned to Santos in January on a short-term deal that was set to expire on 30 June.

However, his injury troubles have persisted. Since his return, Neymar has made 12 appearances in all competitions for Santos, scoring three goals. In his most recent outing in the domestic league, he was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for scoring with his hand against Botafogo.

Santos, currently languishing near the bottom of the Brazilian championship, are only above the relegation zone on goal difference after 12 matches.

Since coming back to Brazil, Neymar has faced criticism for off-field activities, including attending the Rio Carnival and participating in the novelty seven-a-side Kings League while still recovering from injury.

Neymar remains Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals – two more than fellow Santos legend Pelé – yet his dream of lifting a World Cup trophy continues to elude him.

Recalled to the national squad in March for two World Cup qualifiers, Neymar was later forced to withdraw due to a thigh injury. In May, Brazil's new head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, omitted him from his first squad.

"I chose players who are fully fit. Neymar has only just returned from injury. Everyone knows he's a very important player, and of course, we're counting on him," said Ancelotti.