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Football Insider

Santos Faces Dilemma as Neymar's Future Hangs in the Balance

Neymar’s future with Santos remains uncertain as contract negotiations continue, with club chief Marcelo Teixeira emphasizing financial constraints. The 33-year-old's return from injury has sparked discussions about his potential departure and a rumored move to Inter Miami.

Santos Faces Dilemma as Neymar's Future Hangs in the Balance

Neymar’s future with Santos remains up in the air as the Brazil star approaches the end of his current contract. Having recently recovered from a muscle injury, the 33-year-old finally returned to action in last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Fortaleza in Serie A. Club chief Marcelo Teixeira wants the ex-Barcelona forward to stay with the club until the World Cup, but has warned the player that there are financial limits when it comes to agreeing a new contract.Club president Teixeira has made it very clear that he wants to keep Neymar at Santos through to next summer's tournament, but admitted that any renewal will depend on financial feasibility. The football icon is one of the highest-paid players in the league, and has options should he choose to depart when his contract expires in December. Inter Miami are believed to be in talks with the forward over a sensational reunion between the Brazilian, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.Speaking on the current situation regarding Neymar's renewal, Teixeira said: "The Neymar project isn’t for six months or a year. It’s for the 2026 World Cup. Santos knew how they would treat Neymar, the investment made. It’s a high investment. Santos and Neymar evaluate the situation periodically. We evaluated it when he came, and that evaluation isn't the same as today's. And the financial situation will be evaluated by both parties until the end of the year. He's not worried about the finances. And Santos has a limit.Teixeira also confirmed that head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda will remain in charge for the 2026 season, no matter how the remainder of the Brazilian league campaign unfolds. Currently sitting 16th in the table with 33 points, Santos are still battling to avoid relegation, a fate that would surely leave Neymar with no choice but to depart in the New Year.He added: "None. Regardless of the situation in the upcoming games, he will be our coach. It's part of the plan for 2026. He's doing a very good job. He's getting to know the group, trying out those who arrived during the transfer window. We're monitoring their training sessions. Players who are doing well in training may not perform as well in matches. It's part of the adaptation process. It's not the coach's responsibility; it's time. The team needs to work together until it finds the right form."Neymar has battled through plenty of issues since returning to Brazil from Al-Hilal. The former Barca and PSG star has fought countless injuries, and even left the pitch in tears back in August after Santos were thrashed 6-0, leading to the sacking of Cleber Xavier. But the South American icon remains adored in his homeland, and has one final dream of leading Brazil to World Cup glory next summer. But if the 33-year-old wants to force himself into Carlo Ancelotti's plans for the tournament, he will need to prove he can stay fit and still perform at a level similar to his European glory days. The former Real Madrid boss has once again left the attacker out of his squad for the upcoming international break, while he waits for the player to increase his fitness. Speaking after announcing his squad, Ancelotti said: "I haven't spoken to Neymar again. We'll see when he can recover and play again."Santos have eight games left in their regular-season campaign, starting with a tough trip to league leaders Palmeiras on Friday. It is fine margins in Brazil's top flight, with Neymar's side only five points off the CONMEBOL Sudamericana group stages, but just two away from relegation.

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Marcelo Teixeira's Stance on Neymar's Future

With Neymar's contract set to expire soon, Santos President Marcelo Teixeira is eager for the star player to stay with the team until the 2026 World Cup. However, Teixeira has been clear that any contract renewal must be financially viable for the club.

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Potential Move to Inter Miami

Rumors of Neymar considering a move to Inter Miami alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have added intrigue to the negotiations. While Santos wants to retain Neymar's services, the player has options as his contract end date approaches.

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Coach Vojvoda's Future Secure

Despite Santos' current struggles in the league, head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has received backing for the 2026 season, indicating stability in the coaching setup regardless of the team's performance in the ongoing campaign.

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Neymar's Challenges and Ambitions

Neymar has faced injury setbacks since his return to Brazil and continues to strive for peak form ahead of the World Cup. With Santos navigating a crucial phase in the league, Neymar's role in the team's performance remains pivotal.

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Carlo Ancelotti's Stance on Neymar

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has omitted Neymar from the upcoming squad, emphasizing the player's need to regain fitness. Neymar's potential inclusion in the national team hinges on his ability to maintain form and stay injury-free.

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Crucial Matches Ahead for Santos

Santos faces a challenging run of fixtures as they aim to secure their league status and strive for success in CONMEBOL Sudamericana. Neymar's impact on the team's fortunes becomes increasingly significant as the season approaches its climax.

Published on November 3, 2025