Mixed emotions for Neymar! Brazilian superstar makes instant impact on injury return for Santos 

   

  Neymar experienced mixed emotions when making his return to action with Santos. The Brazil international, who is clinging to his 2026 World Cup dream, is back on the field after recovering from knee surgery. He is looking to play his way towards full fitness, with an eventful cameo appearance being taken in when stepping off the bench in a meeting with Velo Clube.  

   

   Santos swept their way to a resounding 6-0 victory in that contest, with experienced striker Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa bagging a brace, one of which was assisted by Neymar as he tackled the ball into his team-mate's path. A passionate fan base was given plenty to shout about, with the sight of Neymar rejoining the fold being welcomed by many. 

 The 34-year-old playmaker went under the knife in December, having played through pain in order to steer Santos clear of relegation danger in their last Serie A campaign. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar did not take long to get back into the groove.

 

 His silky skills were on full display as he tied opponents up in knots, with Neymar clearly not lacking in confidence despite spending more time on the treatment table. He made an instant impact off the bench, with supporters quick to get on their feet.

   

 His silky skills were on full display as he tied opponents up in knots, with Neymar clearly not lacking in confidence despite spending more time on the treatment table. He made an instant impact off the bench, with supporters quick to get on their feet.