Santos sporting director hopeful that Neymar might return next season

As rumors about Neymar leaving Al-Hilal grow, a club chief has said that his "love" for Santos may result in his return. Shortly after returning from an ACL injury that kept him out of action for over a year, Neymar suffered another setback, raising the possibility that his miserable Al-Hilal tenure is coming to an end. According to reports, the 32-year-old will not be registered by the Saudi Pro League team for the latter part of the season, which will allow him to depart in 2025.

Santos is one squad that is more than willing to take a chance on the former Paris Saint-Germain forward, even though he may currently be broken goods. After graduating from the Brazilian club's academy, Neymar established himself there until moving to FC Barcelona in 2013. Santos manager Marcio Calves was unapologetically vocal about his wish to see the international star stage a "dream" comeback to his former home ground when discussing the rumors that have connected Neymar to his boyhood team.

“I believe 60% that Neymar” : Santos sporting director

Calves, Santos’s executive sporting director, spoke on the possible return of Neymar. He said, "There are no official negotiations with Neymar at the moment, but his return to our club is every fan's dream. Neymar's relationship with Santos is wonderful. He started his career here and the possibility of his return depends on his desire and his performance with Al Hilal. I believe 60% that Neymar will join us when his contract with Al Hilal ends. He can accept leaving because he loves Santos and is thinking about going to the 2026 World Cup."

Neymar's move to Al-Hilal might rightfully be regarded as one of the most disastrous deals in football history. There is now a genuine possibility that he will depart after only seven club appearances, and he is expected to remain sidelined for more than a month. He may play with Lionel Messi again at Inter Miami the following season, according to sources.