The possibility of Neymar returning to FC Barcelona has been a recurring theme since his departure to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Now, with Neymar currently playing for Santos after a short and injury-plagued stint in Saudi Arabia, speculation has once again intensified.
However, according to reports in SPORT, FC Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has definitively ruled out any chance of Neymar returning to Camp Nou, citing concerns about his recent form and potential negative impact on the club’s younger players.
Neymar’s move to PSG in 2017, for a world-record fee, marked a significant moment in football history. His six years in Paris, though marked by individual brilliance and several team trophies, were also affected by injuries.
Following a short spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal, which was significantly affected by a serious knee injury, Neymar mutually terminated his contract in January 2025 to return to his boyhood club, Santos, signing a six-month deal. His time at Santos is seen as a period to regain full fitness and showcase his abilities ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Deco rules out Neymar’s return to Barcelona
According to SPORT, FC Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has categorically ruled out the possibility of Neymar returning to the Camp Nou. Deco reportedly cited Neymar’s recent decline in form as a primary concern, suggesting that his current level of performance does not align with Barcelona’s ambitions.
Furthermore, concerns exist about the potentially disruptive influence of Neymar on the club’s young players, with a belief that his presence could hinder their development and negatively impact the team’s overall dynamics. These concerns have led to a decision to pursue other transfer targets.
Neymar enjoyed considerable success during his first spell at Barcelona, contributing significantly to the team’s achievements. In 186 appearances, he scored 105 goals and provided 76 assists across all competitions, helping the team win two La Liga titles and the Champions League.
his past success, however, is contrasted by his more recent performances, with a decline in form and numerous injuries creating concerns about his suitability to Barcelona’s long-term plans and ambitions. His upcoming match against Corinthians offers a further opportunity to assess his form and fitness.
