• Source:JND
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Brazilian forward Neymar has signed a six-month contract extension with Santos, his boyhood club announced on Tuesday. The deal means the 33-year-old remains with Santos until the end of the year, with the possibility of renewing after it expires.

The star forward returned to his boyhood club in late January, joining from Saudi club Al-Hilal, but has been limited by injuries. His current deal was set to expire next week.

"I made a decision and I listened to my heart. Santos is not just my team; it is my home, my roots, my history and my life. I grew up here and became a man here. I am truly loved here. Here I can be myself and be truly happy," Neymar said in a statement.

 
 
 
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"I extended my contract with Santos. I went, I came back, and I stay where it all began and where it will never end," Neymar said in a video on his social media channels.

Both parties avoided explaining why he did not extend his contract until the middle of 2026, when many Brazilians still expect him to play in the World Cup. Earlier in June, new Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti hinted he is counting on Neymar's recovery to play in the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Neymar has made just 12 appearances for Santos so far, scoring three goals and providing three assists. He had two extended periods of absence due to muscle injuries. He played 225 matches for Santos in his first spell and scored 138 goals, many of them key to winning six titles at the Brazilian giant, which was relegated in 2023 and returned to the top division last year. His latest appearance for the team was a frustrating one; he was sent off in the 76th minute of Santos' 1-0 loss to Botafogo at home on June 1 after using his hand to score.

Saudi club Al-Hilal terminated Neymar's contract with mutual consent, six months early, after he played only seven matches. An ACL injury sidelined him for a year until October. Al-Hilal said Neymar could no longer perform like he used to. Neymar also left Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to criticism, despite delivering silverware and goals.

Santos, on the other hand, currently stand in the 15th position in the Brazilian league with 11 points after 12 matches.