Neymar's World Cup Redemption: From Retirement Brink to Santos Glory

Neymar Jr. BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

Neymar Jr. just inked a blockbuster contract extension with Santos through 2026, announcing it himself on the clubs social media Tuesday, ESPN reports, declaring Santos his true home as he eyes a World Cup dream. The 33-year-old Brazil legend, back at his boyhood club since January 2025, scored 11 goals in 34 games last season, heroically dragging them from relegation danger with clutch strikes in the finale despite knee woes. This deal screams long-term commitment, tying him to Serie A kickoff against Chapecoense on January 28 and the Sao Paulo State Championship already underway since January 10.

Hot on its heels, Neymar kicked off rehab at Santos training ground last Thursday, flashing a grin in the gym after minor left knee surgery on December 22, Fox Sports reveals, a pivotal step on his road to Carlo Ancelottis Brazil squad for this summers tournament. He hasnt donned the Selecao shirt since a brutal ACL tear in October 2023 World Cup qualifying, but Ancelotti insists hell be in the mix if fit. Whispers from his camp, per Fox, confirm he flirted with retirement amid injury hell, his dad admitting Neymar hit rock bottom thinking Ive had enough, yet the World Cup fire reignited him.

Off-pitch, Neymar melted hearts January 10 with his sweetest social media post yet, beIN Sports dishes, sharing a tender photo cuddling daughter Mavie, captioning it This beautiful companion who gave me strength today. The viral moment, racking up thousands of emotional comments, spotlights his daddy devotion as family fuels his comeback amid elite pressures. Reports swirl hes open to a tactical role shift for Brazil to snag that World Cup berth under Ancelotti, World Soccer Talk notes January 11, though unconfirmed. No public sightings beyond training, but this whirlwind cements Neymars redemption arc: from brink of quitting to Santos savior and global glory chaser. Stay tuned, footballs bad boy is far from faded.

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