What Neymar Must Sacrifice for a Second Stint With Barcelona | OneFootball

Neymar is back in his homeland of Brazil with Santos FC, returning to his roots after his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal was terminated. However, could this return to his boyhood club be short-lived?

The Brazilian made just seven appearances for the club during an injury-plagued stint in the Middle East following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.

Neymar has signed a six-month deal with Santos, taking a significant pay cut to return to the club that helped launch his career. He’s already planning another big move for the summer of 2025.

According to Cadena SER, Neymar is eager to prove himself to Barcelona and earn a second stint at Camp Nou. His time at Santos is meant to show top European clubs that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level—before aiming for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Does Barcelona want Neymar to return for a second spell?

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Despite the report that the 33-year-old wants another spell at Barcelona, Diario AS doesn’t believe there will be a reunion unless one thing were to happen.

“As Cadena SER reported this week, Neymar’s return is more his wish than Barça’s,” the Spanish outlet noted. “The club is currently happy with Raphinha, Lamine, and Lewandowski. He would only have a chance if he takes a major pay cut.”