IIn just over a month at Santos, Neymar has played four matches—one more than during his entire stint at Al Hilal.Among other things, the Brazilian scored his first goal last night since October 2023, when he scored for Al Hilal in the AFC Champions League. His stint in Saudi Arabia was marked by injuries and inactivity, despite earning an enormous salary. However, even at 34, he seems highly motivated.GOOOOL DO NEYMAR JR!!! 👑⚪️HIS FIRST GOAL IN OVER A YEAR! HIS FIRST GOAL FOR SANTOS IN HIS RETURN! pic.twitter.com/YLQWaNKj9L— Ginga Bonito 🇧🇷 (@GingaBonitoHub) February 16, 2025 According to reports from SER Catalunya radio, Brazilian is eager to use his performances in Brazil to secure a return to Barcelona, aiming to regain top form ahead of the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada next year.🚨 Neymar wants to return to Barcelona when his Santos contract runs out. He has one goal in mind: To get ready for the 2026 World Cup.(Source: CADENA SER) pic.twitter.com/CwFo7Y3SV2— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 14, 2025 As always, Brazil has the highest ambitions for the tournament, and Neymar hopes that competing in a stronger league will help him finally meet the expectations of his nation. He has long been seen as the leader meant to deliver a sixth World Cup trophy, but his previous three appearances on football’s biggest stage have ended in disappointment.In 2014, as hosts, Brazil finished fourth, with the infamous 1-7 defeat to Germany in the semifinals still fresh in memory. In 2018, they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Belgium (1-2), and in Qatar 2022, they suffered another quarterfinal exit, this time against Croatia after a penalty shootout.All other players exchange shirts, but Neymar and Depay something moreNeymar had a spectacular spell at Barcelona, especially during the iconic partnership with Messi and Suarez, which led to the club’s Champions League triumph in 2015. However, a return to Camp Nou seems highly unlikely. His frequent injuries have prevented him from reaching the heights expected of him since his teenage years, and new Barcelona coach Hansi Flick does not appear inclined to fulfill sentimental requests. Still, if he truly shines in Brazil—which is not out of the question—he might at least persuade the German coach to consider a conversation about a potential reunion.##NAJAVA_MECA_8710010##
