Neymar Eyes Strategic Club Move to Lock Down 2026 World Cup Spot—Sources Reveal
Following his crucial role in helping childhood team Santos avoid relegation, sources suggest Neymar Jr is on the verge of finalizing a contract extension with the club to secure regular match time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Reports indicate that Neymar will commit to a fresh six-month deal with Santos lasting until the 2026 World Cup begins, according to ESPN. Santos officials and Neymar's father, who serves as his representative, have allegedly already settled on contract terms, with only Neymar's signature needed to extend his current agreement that was set to expire at the end of 2025.
Neymar faced significant challenges, particularly with fitness issues, after rejoining Santos at the beginning of 2025. The legendary club was also struggling and found themselves in Brazil's Serie A relegation zone with just six matches remaining in the season.
Adding to the difficulties, another knee problem nearly cut Neymar's campaign short. However, defying expectations, he managed to feature in the team's crucial final stretch. More impressively, he rediscovered his best form and became the team's savior.
Neymar netted five of his eight seasonal goals during Santos's final five fixtures, while also recording his first assist of the campaign. The team concluded the season undefeated in their last five matches, claiming victory in their final three games to not only escape relegation but also earn qualification for the 2026 Copa Sudamericana—South America's equivalent of the UEFA Europa League.
It was classic Neymar at his finest, and his heroic performances transformed supporter demands for his departure into overwhelming appreciation for one of Santos's greatest ever players.
Despite plans for Neymar to finalize a new deal, he's expected to spend additional time recovering to ensure peak fitness for his ultimate push to secure selection in Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar To Undergo Knee Surgery Before 2026
Neymar competed in Santos' final matches during their relegation battle while carrying a meniscus problem in his left knee. After successfully completing the season, it was announced that the player would need arthroscopic surgery to address the persistent issue.
After Santos's 3–0 victory against Cruzeiro in their season finale on Dec. 7, Neymar provided an insightful interview to Globo Esporte, discussing his upcoming surgical procedure.
"I came here for this purpose, to assist in whatever way possible," he stated. "I'm going to step away from football for approximately 10 days, which I need. Following that, I'll have the surgery and then concentrate on my ultimate objective."
Neymar will be out of action for roughly one month after his operation, before returning to competition with a specific target in mind. When questioned about his ultimate objective, Neymar replied with a grin.
"The World Cup."