Neymar Returns to Santos After 12 Years in 1-1 Draw Against Botafogo

The Brazilian star made an emotional comeback to his boyhood club, signing a six-month contract after recovering from a serious knee injury.

Neymar played his first match for Santos in 12 years, entering as a second-half substitute during a 1-1 draw with Botafogo in the Campeonato Paulista.
The game marked Neymar's return to professional football following a 16-month recovery from an ACL and meniscus injury sustained in 2023.
Over 20,000 fans gathered at Vila Belmiro Stadium to welcome Neymar, who expressed gratitude for the emotional homecoming and pledged to help Santos succeed.
Neymar, who turned 33 on match day, acknowledged he is not yet at full fitness but promised improvement in the coming games as he regains match sharpness.
The six-month contract with Santos includes the possibility of extension, potentially aligning with his aspirations to continue playing through the 2026 World Cup.