Neymar (33) scored for the first time in 16 months after his penalty set Santos on the way to a 3-1 win over Agua Santa in the Paulista Championship on Sunday and the Brazil forward said he was happy to be playing again after a long injury absence.
Neymar finally ended his 16-month goal drought by converting a penalty in Santos’ 3-1 victory over Agua Santa in the Paulista Championship on Sunday. The Brazilian superstar, who has been battling injuries and setbacks, expressed his joy at returning to form and playing football again.
The goal marked Neymar’s first since October 2023, when he last found the net for Al Hilal before a serious knee injury sidelined him. His performance not only inspired Santos but also reassured fans that he is gradually rediscovering his rhythm on the pitch.
Neymar’s Long-Awaited Goal
The Brazilian icon made an early impact in the match, stepping up to take a 14th-minute penalty and calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to give Santos the lead. His clinical finish was a moment of celebration, not just for him but for the Santos faithful, who have been eagerly awaiting their hero’s return to the scoresheet.
⚪️⚫️ Neymar Jr scores his first goal as Santos player since returning to the club in January.
Ney won the penalty and scored. pic.twitter.com/ZocxUtaIHn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 16, 2025
Santos continued their dominance with Thaciano doubling the lead, and Guilherme sealing the win in the 70th minute, following a brilliant assist from Neymar. The victory was a crucial one for Santos, as they continue to push for success in the Paulista Championship.
Neymar Reflects on His Comeback
Following the match, Neymar spoke about his emotions and physical progress after such a long spell on the sidelines.
“I’m happy to be playing again. I feel I’m improving,” he said. “Obviously I’m not going to be 100% physically—it’s only my fourth game—but I’m getting better and better.”
He admitted that he had been eager to score his first goal since returning, dedicating it to his fans and family, who have supported him throughout his difficult recovery period.
Neymar’s Injury Struggles and Road to Recovery
Neymar’s last goal came when he was playing for Al Hilal in October 2023. However, his time in Saudi Arabia was cut short due to a serious knee injury, which restricted him to only seven appearances for the club.
The forward underwent intensive rehabilitation, missing several months of football before finally making his highly anticipated return to Santos, the club where he began his professional career in 2009.
Despite the struggles, Neymar has remained determined to get back to his best, and his latest goal is a sign that he is on the right track.
Neymar’s Legacy at Santos
Neymar’s name is already legendary at Santos. He made his professional debut for the club as a 17-year-old in 2009 and quickly became their most influential player. Over his first stint, he scored 136 goals and provided 64 assists in 225 matches, playing a pivotal role in securing Santos’ first Copa Libertadores title in nearly 50 years in 2011.
His performances earned him a move to Barcelona in 2013, where he formed part of the famous MSN trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, winning numerous trophies, including the Champions League in 2015.
Neymar then made headlines in 2017 when he moved to Paris Saint-Germain for a world-record fee of €222 million ($232 million). After six seasons in France, he joined Al Hilal for a reported €90 million transfer fee, but his stint in Saudi Arabia was disrupted by injuries.
His Short-Term Deal with Santos and Future Plans
Reports in Brazilian media suggest that Neymar’s current contract with Santos runs until June 2025. While there is speculation about whether he will extend his stay, Neymar hinted that he is focused on enjoying his football for now.
“We’re helping each other. Santos are helping me, they’ve opened doors for me to rediscover soccer, to rediscover joy,” Neymar said.
“I didn’t want to sign a long contract because I didn’t know how I was going to come back. I didn’t know how I was going to feel during these months. Let’s enjoy these moments—it’s the start of a great era for Santos.”
What’s Next for Neymar and Santos?
Santos will now shift their focus to their next match against Noroeste on Wednesday. With Neymar finding his rhythm, the club will hope to continue their momentum in the Paulista Championship.
For Neymar, the priority remains his fitness and form, as he looks to re-establish himself as one of the top players in Brazilian football. If he continues improving, there is also the possibility of a return to the Brazilian national team ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
As he takes one step at a time, his latest goal serves as a reminder of the magic he can still bring to the game. Santos fans will be hoping that this is just the beginning of another legendary chapter for Neymar at the club.
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