After nearly two months on the sidelines following knee surgery, Neymar Jr. has made an emphatic return to the pitch. On Sunday, the Brazilian forward featured for Santos FC as a substitute in a commanding 6–0 victory over Velo Clube the quarter-finals of the Campeonato Paulista. For Neymar, the outing marked a crucial step in his preparation ahead of the upcoming World Cup, with the 33-year-old forward expressing confidence about his recovery and readiness.
Match Overview: Neymar’s Return
| Player | Team | Role | Minutes Played | Key Moments | Goals/Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neymar Jr. | Santos FC | Substitute | 25 | Missed golden chance | 0/0 |
| Santos FC Team | — | — | Full Match | 6 goals scored | 6/— |
| Velo Clube Team | — | — | Full Match | Conceded 6 goals | 0/— |
After the match, Santos coach Joan Pablo expressed his satisfaction with Neymar’s performance, stating:
“I believe everyone needs Neymar—Santos, the national team. When he plays well, Carlo Ancelotti will be happy. Everything is interconnected.”
Neymar’s last appearance in the Brazilian jersey came in October 2023, and despite the challenges of recent seasons, which saw recurrent injuries derail his form, Pablo remains convinced of the forward’s quality.
“He is a world-class player. The drive inside him is still intense. Whether he spends a few minutes on the pitch or in training, he wants to compete, he wants to win. That mindset is what inspires him,” the coach added.
In recent years, Neymar has battled a series of injuries, which ultimately led to the conclusion of his European and Saudi football chapters and a return to Santos. Yet, even amid these setbacks, the Brazilian star’s ambition to feature in another World Cup remains unwavering—a testament to his enduring determination and passion for the game.
As Santos progress in the Campeonato Paulista, all eyes will remain on Neymar, not only for his recovery but for the role he could play on the global stage in the months to come.