Santos President Confirms Talks for Neymar's Contract Renewal Through to 2026 World Cup
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira has confirmed that renewing Neymar's contract is a major priority, days after the Brazil international admitted he was unsure where his future lies. Neymar has endured some difficult times since returning to boyhood club Santos, but the board is optimistic about extending his stay.
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira has confirmed that renewing Neymar's contract is a major priority, days after the Brazil international admitted he was unsure where his future lies. The former Barcelona star returned to his boyhood team at the start of the year and helped them avoid what would have been an embarrassing relegation from Serie A, but his current deal is now set to expire.Neymar has endured some difficult times since returning to boyhood club Santos, once again struggling with injuries after his spell in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal was dogged by similar issues. The Brazilian club were staring at the possibility of relegation from the country's top division, but their talismanic attacker stepped up to inspire a crucial 3-0 victory over Cruzeiro, playing through the pain of a new meniscus injury in his knee to ensure they will remain in Serie A.However, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star immediately cast doubt over his short-term future. When asked what's next for him, Neymar responded: "I do not know, really. I don’t know. I need some days now, I need to rest, disconnect then decide my future. For sure my priority always goes to Santos."Neymar finished the 2025 season with eight goals and one assist in 20 league games as he started to feature on a more consistent basis for the first time since the 2022-23 campaign, his last in France with Paris Saint-Germain.While Neymar is unsure where his future lies, those at the boardroom level seem set in their belief that he should extend his contract.Teixeira said: "Renewing Neymar's contract is a priority for Santos right now. Everything depends on the budget. We have a budget that is based on what we can spend. We are talking and negotiating in search of a common ground, adapting Neymar's current contract to 2026."There is good intention on his part, on the part of NR [the company that manages the striker's career], and on the part of Santos. That's already a good start. We need this adjustment to lead to a positive financial outcome for both sides."We are in talks regarding some contract renewals, especially Neymar's, and we are very confident. Neymar's project is also aimed at next year's World Cup, and we are in this dialogue to ensure he stays."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Neymar has previously featured in three World Cups for Brazil. He was their shining light in 2014, scoring four goals before suffering a tournament-ending injury. The Selecao were later eliminated by Germany in the semi-finals with a crushing 7-1 defeat. He then scored two goals apiece at the 2018 and 2022 showpieces, but Brazil were eliminated at the quarter-final stage in both competitions.Now 33 years of age, Neymar is undoubtedly past his best, with recent injuries robbing him of his renowned agility and pace. He will hope to be part of Brazil's squad for the 2026 tournament, especially given that the only piece of silverware he has won at international level remains the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, but he has not played for his country since 2023. National team manager Carlo Ancelotti also has plenty of other options in wide positions to choose from, including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Estevao, Matheus Cunha, Joao Pedro and Raphinha just to name a handful.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingFor now, all eyes will be on Neymar's current injury situation, with the forward set to undergo minor surgery on his knee issue. It's been reported that the legendary Brazilian attacker will soon see a 'miracle doctor', a physiotherapist by the name of Eduardo Santos, in the hope of regaining full fitness in quick time before the World Cup rolls around.Ancelotti recently revealed he will refuse to call up players who aren't 100% fit and claimed he doesn't "owe anyone a debt" when it comes to his Brazil squad selection for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but did say Neymar would make the cut if he "deserves" it.
The Current Situation
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira has revealed that renewing Neymar's contract is a top priority for the club. Despite uncertainties surrounding Neymar's future following his return to Santos, both the club and the player's management company are engaged in talks to extend his deal through to the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar's Impact at Santos
Neymar returned to Santos earlier this year and played a crucial role in helping the team avoid relegation from Serie A. Despite facing injury setbacks, Neymar's contributions on and off the pitch have been instrumental in Santos' success, making him a key figure in the club's future plans.
Contract Negotiations
Teixeira mentioned that negotiations are ongoing to adapt Neymar's current contract for continuity until 2026. Both parties are inclined towards a positive outcome that benefits Santos financially while also aligning with Neymar's own aspirations, especially with an eye on the next World Cup.
World Cup Ambitions
Neymar, who has represented Brazil in three World Cups, including a memorable run in 2014, is eyeing a spot in the squad for the 2026 tournament. Despite recent injury concerns and competition from other talented players, Neymar remains determined to add to his international accolades.
Road to Recovery
As Neymar awaits minor surgery for a knee issue, his recovery process is crucial for his chances of featuring in the upcoming World Cup. With the support of renowned physiotherapists, Neymar is focused on regaining full fitness in time for the tournament and proving his worth for a place in Brazil's squad.
Manager's Perspective
National team manager Carlo Ancelotti's stance on player fitness underscores the importance of Neymar's recovery. Ancelotti's emphasis on selecting fully fit players for the World Cup suggests that Neymar must prove his readiness to secure a spot in the squad and contribute effectively on the field.

