Neymar has agreed to return to Santos nearly 12 years after his departure from the Brazilian club, as confirmed by club president Marcelo Teixeira on Tuesday.

The Brazilian striker had earlier confirmed the mutual termination of his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, where he faced injury troubles, appearing in just seven matches and netting only once.

At 32 years old, Neymar has won six titles with Santos, including a Copa Libertadores trophy in 2011. Teixeira expressed on social media, “It is the time for you to come back to your people. Our boy Ney! The Santos nation awaits you with open arms.”

Neymar has been sidelined for much of his time in Saudi Arabia due to an ACL injury sustained while playing for Brazil in October 2023. Reports from São Paulo suggest that he is expected to return to Brazil this week and meet with Santos fans shortly thereafter.

The star, who once became the most expensive player in soccer history with his transfer to PSG for a record-breaking fee, had departed Santos for Europe early in his career. His time at Al-Hilal was hampered by injuries, and his contract was set to end after this year’s FIFA Club World Cup scheduled for mid-2025.

Santos was relegated to the second division in 2023 but has since been promoted back. Neymar’s return has been a topic of anticipation among fans, many of whom have circulated a video featuring Pelé’s voice asking Neymar to wear his historic No. 10 shirt

Neymar expressed gratitude towards Al-Hilal despite his challenges, stating, “I gave everything to play and I wish we enjoyed better times on the pitch together.”

The forward also emphasized his commitment to re-establishing form as he looks ahead to the upcoming World Cup in North America next year, which may be his last chance to win the trophy.