Do you want to go back to Barça? Neymar's father speaks clear about the plans of the '10' of Santos

The persistent rumor about a possible meeting between the 33-year-old Brazilian forward, Neymar Jr., and FC Barcelona has unexpectedly gained strength once again. It is worth remembering that recently, information indicated that the native of Mogi das Cruzes had a firm intention to return to Europe, specifically to Barça, by mid-2025.

It was mentioned that he would use Santos as a 'springboard' to regain consistency in his game, showcase himself, and thus have the opportunity to have a 'last dance' in the Old Continent. It is known that at his best level, or at least a level close to it, Neymar can be a first-rate asset.

However, the supposed return of Neymar to FC Barcelona, just like on other occasions when his return to the Catalan club was rumored, seems to be only another hoax. This was reaffirmed by the father of the '10' of Santos in brief statements prior to the match between 'Peixe' and Agua Santa, a valid encounter for matchday 10 of the Campeonato Paulista 2025.

In this match, Neymar had his first great night in his second cycle as a player for the 'alvinegro' team, contributing with a goal and an assist in the 3-1 victory of the team led by Pedro Caixinha.

Neymar Jr.'s father reveals plans for his son

In an exclusive interview with the Brazilian channel TNT Sports, Neymar Sr. did not hesitate to admit that, although his son's contract with Santos is valid until June 30, which has been the main reason for rumors surrounding the '10', the intention is for 'Ney' to extend his stay at the club. "Our project is not just for five months, even though my son's contract is only for five months," said the father of the Brazilian 'magician'.

"Our project is not just for five months"

"We didn't come here just to play for five months, we came to give Santos the opportunity to restructure during this time, to find allies who can help the club rise again. And many people have appeared," affirmed Neymar Senior.

It is important to note that these statements do not guarantee Neymar's stay at Santos, but suggest that both the former FC Barcelona player and his father could continue to be involved in the development of the 'Peixe' project in several ways, not necessarily with 'Ney' on the field. This scenario is a possibility.

Neymar remains cryptic about his future

In his post-match remarks, Neymar remained cryptic about his future after the end of his current contract with Santos, also explaining why he signed such a short contract with the team. "I didn't want to make a long contract because I didn't know how I would come back. I didn't know how I would feel playing. I think anything can happen," he commented exclusively for TNT Sports.

"I didn't want to make a long contract because I didn't know how I would come back"

"The contract we agreed upon doesn't just benefit the two of us. We're helping each other. Santos has supported me, has given me the chance to reconnect with football and regain joy," added the forward.

Regarding his continuity at 'Peixe', Neymar maintained an elusive tone, choosing instead to show his love for the 'alvinegro' team. "Santos knows the love I feel for this club, the respect I have. As long as I'm on the field, where I like to be the most, I will give myself 100%. Let's enjoy this moment, every single game. This is the beginning of a great era for Santos, I am sure of that. Santos will rise again and return to the top, where it belongs," he concluded.