The future of Neymar remains unclear after the Brazilian superstar said he did not know what he would do next after his short-term contract with Santos concludes.
Neymar’s uncertain future at Santos has sparked speculation, with the Brazilian star admitting he’s unsure about his next move as his contract nears its June expiration.
The 33-year-old, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, returned to his boyhood club in January after completing his time with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League cut short by injuries.
Although he was emotional returning to Santos, recurring fitness issues limited his ability to impact the team at Santos, and raised questions over what comes next for the man once seen as a global icon.
With his contract ending in June, Neymar’s somewhat tabular response to reporters – “I’m not sure, in this talking at that moment (on the future), I don’t know.” – only served to heighten speculation over where he will be next, as reported by Goal.
An extension with Santos is possible that would allow him to stay close to his children and his girlfriend Bruna Biancardi, in familiar surroundings.
Yet, his undeniable talent, given that he is fit, draws attention, with speculation discussed at a possible return to FC Barcelona.
Neymar also made magic with FC Barcelona from 2013 to 2017 as part of the successful and deadly MSN trio, including Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, which helped the team take out a Champions League title along with multiple country-specific La Liga titles in Spain.
However, a reunion with Barcelona seems long shot given Hansi Flick’s current attacking setup.
Flick has younger stars like Lamine Yamal on the field and younger new acquisitions like Luis Diaz.
Neymar has an injury history. In addition, his wages are quite high, and the club is financially responsible.
It is still early for Neymar as he tries to regain full fitness; as for his future, it looks like it could be Santos for the moment.
While decision time nears, fans across Brazil and Catalonia will be watching closer than ever to see if the unpredictable star can return to his magical form and maybe rekindle old memories with Barcelona.
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