Neymar extends Santos deal to pursue World Cup call-up

Neymar has extended his Santos contract until the end of 2026 and underwent surgery on his left knee after helping the club avoid relegation; he is seeking selection for Brazil's World Cup squad.

Neymar has extended his contract with Santos to the end of 2026. He returned to his boyhood club in January 2025 and has not played for Brazil since 2023 amid injury problems. He had surgery on his left knee after scoring five times in Santos' final five matches last season and is aiming for a place in Brazil's World Cup squad. Key points: - Contract extended with Santos through the end of 2026. - Has not represented Brazil since 2023 and returned to Santos in January 2025. - Underwent left knee meniscus surgery after playing through pain; seeking inclusion in Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup plans. Summary: The contract extension keeps Neymar at Santos while he completes recovery and pursues a return to the national team. The next scheduled milestone is selection decisions by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the World Cup this summer.