Brazilian Icon Commits to Boyhood Club Ahead of 2026 World Cup Push.

Neymar Jr

Neymar Jr has agreed to a one-year contract extension with Santos FC, keeping the Brazilian superstar at his boyhood club until December 2026, as confirmed by multiple sources including Fabrizio Romano and Globo Esporte on December 31, 2025.

The 33-year-old, who returned to Santos in early 2025 after his Al-Hilal stint, had a contract expiring at the end of 2025. This renewal – shifting from previous short-term deals – ensures continuity beyond the 2026 World Cup, allowing Neymar to focus on regaining full fitness and earning a Brazil recall under Carlo Ancelotti.

Despite injury setbacks (including recent knee surgery delaying his 2026 start until February), Neymar played a pivotal role in saving Santos from relegation, contributing key goals late in the season.

The extension aligns with club president Marcelo Teixeira’s term and boosts Santos commercially/sportingly. No major European or MLS moves materialized, with Neymar prioritizing his roots at Vila Belmiro.

An emotional homecoming continues – O Rei stays at the Peixe.