Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr officially made his return to his boyhood Santos FC after exiting the Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal on mutual agreement. The 33-year-old received a grand reception from the crowd who were present at the Urbano Caldeira Stadium as he was unveiled as the Santos FC’s marquee signing in the January transfer window,

Neymar has confirmed he will sign what is expected to be a short-term contract with his boyhood club, Santos, as the Brazil striker aims to recharge his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil forward Neymar will return to his boyhood club Santos from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, he posted on social media on Thursday.

Santos president Marcelo Teixeira is confident Neymar will remain at the club at least until the 2026 World Cup.

Anderson Souza, 43, lives in Santos and is not a supporter of the club. But he is one of those who believes Neymar will put the city back on the map after some tough times.

For the first time in 12 years, Neymar is celebrating his birthday at Santos as he officially made his return to the boyhood club after leaving Al Hilal on mutual agreement with the Saudi Pro League club.

Neymar Jr. arrived at Santos FC just a few days ago, but he is already prepared to make his debut with the team. Head coach Pedro Caixinha has revealed the date on which the Brazilian forward is expected to play his first match.

Santos' president wants Neymar to stay in Brazil until the 2026 World Cup despite the star eyeing a move back to Europe in the summer.