Brazilian football superstar Neymar Jr. has taken a significant step towards rekindling his dream of playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He has agreed to extend his contract with his boyhood club, Santos Futebol Clube, until the end of 2026.
The 33-year-old forward’s decision underscores his commitment to regaining full fitness and earning a spot in Brazil’s national squad for the major global tournament.
Contract Extension Keeps World Cup Hopes Alive
Neymar’s contract extension with Santos, confirmed on January 7, 2026, means he will remain at the club where he began his professional journey through the summer of next year.
The World Cup finals are scheduled to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
The deal follows Neymar’s return to Santos in early 2025—a move that helped the club avoid relegation in Brazil’s top division.
Despite battling injuries, including a knee problem that required arthroscopic surgery, Neymar has continued to show his dedication on and off the pitch.
Neymar has reaffirmed his determination to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Overcoming Injury Setbacks
Neymar’s road back to the national team has not been straightforward. The former Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona star has suffered a series of injuries.
The list includes a serious knee injury that Neymar sustained while representing Brazil in October 2023. This injury kept him sidelined for an extended period.
However, after a successful knee surgery late last year and a determined run of performances in 2025, Neymar has shown signs of returning to his best form. Neymar has shown signs of returning to his best form.
Neymar has shown signs of returning to his best form.
This development could catch the eye of Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who has previously stated that Neymar must be fully fit to be considered for World Cup selection.
Brazil’s World Cup Group and Neymar’s Chance
Brazil, one of the pre-tournament favourites, will compete in Group C at the 2026 World Cup, facing Scotland, Morocco, and Haiti in the group stage.
With Neymar currently Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, his inclusion would add significant firepower and leadership to the squad as they chase their sixth World Cup title.
Reactions from fans and the football community
The news of Neymar’s extended stay at Santos and his ongoing quest for a national team recall has generated excitement among fans and pundits alike.
Supporters have praised the forward’s loyalty to his roots and his determination to overcome physical setbacks, viewing his contract decision as a positive sign for Brazil’s ambitions in the next World Cup cycle.
Looking Ahead
As Neymar continues his journey with Santos in the Brazilian league and works toward peak fitness, attention will turn to whether he can secure a coveted place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
If successful, the 2026 tournament could mark a fitting stage for one of football’s most talented and charismatic players to add a long-awaited World Cup success to his illustrious career. (Reuters)