Neymar made his highly anticipated return to his childhood club Santos, receiving a warm welcome from fans during the match against Botafogo, which ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw. Coming on as a substitute in the second half, Neymar was unable to regain his former glory, struggling after a 16-month absence due to injury. As the match unfolded, Santos couldn’t capitalize on their numerical advantage after Botafogo's Wallison was sent off. He expressed deep emotional connections to the club but acknowledged the need for more practice and patience.
It was a very difficult game. I had even commented that my father was there on the side. I said, It's a difficult game... a lot of hitting.
I can't find the words to express the feeling when you love something. I love Santos very much and I can't find the words to describe the feeling I felt when I stepped out onto the pitch today.
Neymar, who joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal from Paris Saint Germain in 2022, was limited to seven appearances after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee in a World Cup qualifier.
The Urbano Caldeira stadium erupted in celebration as jubilant and tearful fans lit up their mobile phones to give the striker... a hero's welcome.
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