Neymar's terrible stats for Santos in 0-0 draw against Novorizontino

The Brazilian made his second cameo for his childhood club.

The Brazilian sensation posted some terrible statistics during his disappointing second full debut for hometown club Santos in the Campeonato Paulista.

After his hefty contract with Al-Hilal, a Saudi Pro League team, was terminated, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker found himself back where it all started. It was after just seven matches that the Middle East stint marred by injuries was cut short.

Neymar then decided to return to the club where he established himself as one of the most promising players in football.

Neymar agreed to an initial six-month contract with Santos after much speculation and his intention to join Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at MLS team Inter Miami. He came off as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Botafogo, marking his first appearance for them since 2013.

🤍🖤 pic.twitter.com/8NO58NNKMF

— Santos FC (@SantosFC) February 10, 2025

In an encounter with Novorizontino, Neymar was included in the starting lineup, but he didn’t do much during the 75 minutes of a game that ended in a scoreless draw. The 33-year-old playmaker failed to record a single shot on goal, lost the ball 24 times, and only finished one of his eight dribbles.

Neymar’s successful passing percentage was only 79%, indicating that he still has a lot of work to do. After receiving a hero’s reception at Santos, Brazil’s all-time top scorer will be seeking better form in the upcoming weeks as he embarks on a journey that might lead him to the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar is still not entirely fit. From last year the forward barely played football due to injuries. He was first sidelined with a season-ending injury and when he returned, the superstar once again suffered a hamstring injury.

It will take time for him to pick up rhythm, find his form and return to his best before Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualifier games next month.

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