Santos' return to Brazil’s top flight was meant to be a triumphant homecoming, led by the club’s greatest modern icon, Neymar. But just weeks before his official top-flight return at Vila Belmiro, the Brazilian superstar has found himself battling yet another injury setback.

Neymar already missed a month of action and, frustratingly for fans, will also sit out Santos' opening match of the 2025 Serie A season against Vasco da Gama. In an official update, the club has now addressed its captain’s status.

Having rejoined Santos from Al-Hilal in January, the 33-year-old was expected to lead the club in their highly anticipated return to the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A. However, doubts lingered over his availability for their first match back in Brazil’s top flight.

Fans were eager to see Neymar go head-to-head with Lionel Messi in the legendary Superclasico de las Americas, but they will now have to wait for another opportunity.

With the debate over synthetic turf in Brazil continuing to grow, Palmeiras president Leila Pereira fired back at Neymar and other league stars with a bold retirement remark.

Neymar’s next move is once again a major topic of speculation as the Brazilian superstar edges closer to the end of his short-term deal with Santos. The club’s president Marcelo Teixeira has now spoken about the superstar’s situation, offering a crucial insight into where his future may lie.

After Santos were eliminated by Corinthians, missing the chance to secure an early trophy, Neymar addressed his absence with an injury update.

Neymar enjoyed immense success during his first spell at Barcelona, playing a crucial role in their title wins. However, his recent performances, marked by injuries and a decline in form, contrast sharply with his previous achievements. This difference in performance levels is a key factor in Barcelona's decision to rule out a potential return.

Neymar has not played for Brazil since suffering a serious knee injury against Uruguay in October 2023. As the squad announcement was made, Neymar took to Instagram to share a simple yet powerful reaction.

Rumors of a possible return for Neymar to Barcelona have been swirling in recent weeks, sparking excitement among fans and media alike. At the heart of the discussion is their sporting director, Deco, who has finally clarified the club’s stance on the matter.

While Neymar’s move back to the new Spotify Camp Nou seems like a dream for many supporters, Barcelona has reportedly set an unusual condition before even considering his return.

Recent reports have emerged that Hansi Flick is not completely sold on Neymar joining the current Barcelona team—now, the German coach Hansi Flick has finally addressed the matter.

Given that Neymar would arrive without a transfer fee, the move appears attractive on paper for Barcelona. However, what does the Blaugrana locker room–including stars like Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski–reportedly think about it?

With the 2026 World Cup as his main goal, reports suggest Neymar is willing to return to Barcelona for free and take a pay cut.

FC Barcelona has made it clear that Neymar's return is not a priority. They've communicated to Neymar and his agent that his performance at Santos will be a deciding factor, indicating a conditional interest dependent on his fitness, form, and goal-scoring ability. His ability to meet their criteria will influence their final decision.