Neymar Breaks Silence with Penalty Goal in Santos Return
Neymar, the iconic Brazilian forward, finally found the back of the net for his boyhood club Santos on Sunday, ending a goal drought that had lasted since October 2023. However, the 33-year-old’s strike came from the penalty spot and in a Campeonato Paulista clash against fourth-tier side Agua Santa.
Despite being far from his best, Neymar opened the scoring in the 14th minute, sending the Agua Santa goalkeeper the wrong way with his trademark stuttering run-up. The goal marked Neymar’s 139th for Santos in 234 appearances, having departed the club in 2013 to join Barcelona in Europe.
It was also his first goal since October 3, 2023, when he was a player for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, whose contract he terminated in late January to return home.
Injury-Riddled Spell in the Gulf
Neymar’s time in the Middle East was marred by a series of injuries that severely limited his playing time. The Brazil national team’s all-time leading scorer featured in just seven matches for Al-Hilal in over a year and a half.
Return to Santos Raises Concerns
Neymar’s homecoming, while widely celebrated, has raised concerns about his fitness and current footballing level. In addition to his goal on Sunday, the Paulista native provided an assist, another first in the four matches he has played since arriving in Brazil. His team emerged victorious, winning 3-1.
Scant Improvement Amidst Criticism
Despite the goal and assist, Neymar’s performances have been met with criticism. He has been accused of being overweight and lacking the sharpness that once made him one of the world’s best players. The former Paris Saint-Germain star was even booed by some Santos fans in a recent match.
Way Forward for Neymar
Neymar’s return to form remains a work in progress. Given his injury history and recent struggles, it may take time for him to regain his peak fitness and rediscover his best football. Whether he can do so at Santos remains to be seen.
The Paulista club will face a stern test in the Copa Libertadores, South America’s top club competition, which begins in April. Neymar will need to step up and deliver if Santos are to make a deep run in the tournament.
Should Neymar continue to struggle, speculation will likely mount over his future. At 33 years of age, his career is entering its twilight. He may need to consider a move to a less competitive league or retire from the game altogether.
For now, though, Neymar remains a Santos player. The club and its fans will hope that they are witnessing a resurgence of their former star, rather than the decline of a once-great footballer.
