The Brazilian returned from injury to play for Santos on Thursday.
After being sidelined for over a month due to a thigh injury, Neymar made his return to the field on Thursday. Despite his comeback, Santos suffered a 5–4 defeat in a penalty shootout against CRB, resulting in their elimination from the Copa do Brasil. Neymar was unable to change the outcome in favor of his team.
The Brazilian star had previously exited the pitch in tears last month after sustaining his second serious injury of the year. His return to Santos from Al-Hilal has been marred by a string of physical setbacks that have limited his time on the field.
Now 33 years old, Neymar rejoined Santos, the club where he began his professional career, following his time with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. According to media reports, his contract with the Brazilian club is set to run until June 30.
When asked about his future at Santos following their penalty shootout loss to CRB, which came after draws in both legs of their third-round clash, Neymar offered little clarity. “I don’t know yet,” he told Amazon Prime.
Santos have had a poor start to the 2025 season, losing six of their first nine matches and currently sitting in 19th place in the league standings.
Although Neymar showed glimpses of his trademark brilliance during the match, his recent return from injury wasn’t enough to steer the team to victory. His performance sparked doubts about his current form and whether he can still be the decisive figure the team needs in critical moments.
The loss stunned Brazilian football, leaving both fans and pundits surprised by Santos’ abrupt exit from the tournament. Attention now turns to former PSG star Neymar, as questions arise about his ability to recover and perform in the challenges ahead, while the team looks to rebound from the painful defeat.
Despite the disappointment in the Copa do Brasil, the football world understands that setbacks like these can fuel the resolve of true champions. As this dramatic chapter closes, all eyes remain on Neymar and Santos as they strive to redeem themselves and reassert their place as a powerful force in Brazilian football.
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