SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian forward Neymar has extended his contract with Santos until the end of 2026.
The 33-year-old striker is aiming to qualify for next summer’s World Cup. He returned to Santos a year ago. Despite some injuries, his boyhood club struggled to avoid relegation from Brazil’s top flight.
His contract was scheduled to expire in July. The club announced the extension late Tuesday.
The former Barcelona star described 2025 as “a special and challenging year for me”.
“This moment of joy and resilience could only have been possible thanks to your love,” Neymar said in a club statement. “Santos is my place. I feel at home here, safe and happy.”
Neymar’s first stint at Santos was between 2009 and 2013. He returned in January last year after leaving Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. The striker scored 12 goals and provided 6 assists in 2025.
Neymar received Minor left knee surgery In December.
Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti, who took over in May, has not yet named Neymar.
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