Is Neymar Nearing the End of His Career?

Sports Desk : Once a footballing magician, Neymar Jr.’s career appears to be fading into obscurity. Returning to his boyhood club Santos after leaving Al-Hilal in 2025, Neymar hoped to reignite his spark, but injuries, controversies, and disappointments have become his constant companions.

At 33, Neymar donned the Santos jersey again for his second stint, starting with a substitute appearance against Botafogo. While he showed glimpses of brilliance, his performances against Novorizontino and Corinthians were marred by poor ball retention, failed dribbles, and wayward passes, signaling that the old Neymar is hard to reclaim. A defeat against Corinthians saw him spark controversy by blaming the ball, drawing attention for off-field behavior rather than on-field heroics.

A penalty goal against Água Santa briefly revived hopes, and a few matches with goals and assists hinted at a return to form. Santos coach Pedro Caixinha even hailed him as a “football genius.” However, an injury against Bragantino halted his progress, with a recurring hamstring issue sidelining him again. Despite assurances of being “fine” and just taking precautions, Neymar’s decision to attend Rio Carnival during recovery drew heavy criticism.

Called up to the Brazil national team, Neymar’s comeback was again derailed by injury, missing a semifinal against Corinthians. His 100th match for Santos was bittersweet, as he limped off after just 34 minutes due to the same left-leg injury. In a crucial Brazilian Série A match against Botafogo, Neymar received a second yellow card for deliberately handling the ball—an act reminiscent of Maradona’s “Hand of God,” but far less successful. His subsequent apology on social media did little to appease frustrated fans.

With his Santos contract set to expire on June 30, the club’s president has made it clear that Neymar is not central to their plans, citing financial considerations. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledges Neymar’s potential but prioritizes players in form. Interest from clubs like Barcelona and Inter Miami has waned, and former coach Jorge Jesus’s words—“Neymar is no longer at that level”—seem to ring true.

Is Neymar truly nearing the end, or can he once again shine through the darkness? Only time will tell.

AI/MR