When Will Neymar Jr Play His First Match for Santos? Date and Debut Details

One of the greatest players of this generation, Neymar Jr captured headlines and set the football world abuzz with a sensational transfer to his boyhood club Santos FC. He has penned down a six-month contract with the Brazilian giants while rejecting a lucrative move to Chicago Fire.

It was an evening full of sentiments, for the former Barcelona and PSG star, who was officially unveiled as a Santos player in front of thousands of fans jam-packed, who had gathered to give Neymar a warm welcome reception at the Estadio Vila Belmir in Sao Palo on Friday, January 31.

After terminating his multi-million contract with Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal following a mutual agreement. The forward marked his return to the club where he made his first-ever professional debut and enjoyed a breakout tenure netting an incredible 136 goals and 64 assists while racking up 225 appearances.

When will Neymar Play for Santos?

Neymar Jr has been out of action since November 2024 when he suffered another injury setback during the AFC Champions League game between Al Hilal and Esteghlal F.C.

Additionally, the winger was unregistered from Al Hilal’s squad and did not play any matches in 2025. Although he has been declared fully fit to play again following his recovery from injury.

The 32-year-old is set to make his second debut for Santos after 12 years, the former PSG man wasn’t a part of Santo’s recent 3-1 victory over arch-rivals Sao Paulo on Saturday, February 1.

However, it is expected that Neymar Jr could make his broadly-awaited second debut in Santos’s home game against Botafogo-SP on Thursday 6th February 2025 and the kick-off at 12:35 AM GMT.

Also Read: Inside Neymar’s Luxurious Car Collection Ranging from Audi RS7 to Lamborghini Veneno