The year 2026 promises to be very important for Neymar’s career. Recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, the star plans to use the last six months of his contract with Santos to defend the Brazilian team in another World Cup.
Neymar’s first step is to renew his contract with Peixe for six months. Hired last February, the Santos project was designed to last a year and a half, precisely until the 2026 World Cup. In June, the star renewed his contract with the club for the first time. From now on, a new extension of the World Cup appears natural between the two parties.
After several physical problems in recent seasons, the player also needs to stay healthy over a long period. He will start the year injured, after the surgical intervention carried out at the end of 2025.
Santos will make its season debut on Saturday 10, at 4 p.m. (Brasilia time), receiving the Novorizontinofor the first round of Paulista Championship. Also in January, Peixe visited Chapecoense, on the 28th, at the opening of the Brasileirão.
In the first half, Alvinegro will also participate in the Copa do Brasil and the group stage of the Copa Sudamericana.
Neymar Jr Santos jersey 25/26! ⚪️⚫️
Available in the Santos store: https://t.co/6NCGbYAyW5 pic.twitter.com/qlYWponZke
– Santos FC (@SantosFC) December 26, 2025
Neymar and his return to the Brazilian national team
The last time Neymar played a match in the Brazilian team jersey was on October 17, 2023, in the defeat against Uruguay, for the South American Qualifiers. Moreover, the star has not yet been recalled since the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti.
Before the final list to defend Brazil in the World Cup, Neymar will only have one more opportunity to be called up. The Brazilian team will play two friendly matches in March, against France And Croatia.
Finally, at 33, close to his 34th birthday, Neymar sees the 2026 World Cup as his last chance to win his sixth with the Brazil team.
About The Author
