Neymars Mixed Return to Santos with Goals Criticism and Drama

For the Santos faithful, Neymar’s highly anticipated return in 2025 has been anything but straightforward. After a forgettable spell at Al-Hilal, where he played only seven games, Neymar rejoined his boyhood club on a five-month contract in January. He made his debut in the São Paulo state championship, greeted with roaring support and promising to help restore Santos to former glory. However, his performances have been inconsistent, with just three goals in nine league appearances.

While there were flashes of brilliance, like his match-winning strike against Flamengo, losses to Mirassol and Internacional dented momentum. The latter saw his 95th-minute equaliser disallowed, followed by a public clash with a fan that turned ugly. Neymar claimed the criticism became personal, while the fan accused him of lacking commitment. Off the pitch, Neymar has helped Santos commercially through shirt sales and sponsorships, but on-field expectations remain unmet.