Neymar dismissed reports that suggested he was determined to return to Santos at the end of the next Pro League season.
The Brazilian striker had an injury-plagued first year at Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, making just five appearances before rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament on international duty.
He has another 12 months left on his deal at Al-Hilal and a report in UOL Esporte has suggested he is already on track to return to Santos, where he made his name before joining Barcelona in 2013.
The 32-year-old admitted he would like to return to his boyhood club at some point but denied 2025 was on the cards.
He told ESPN Brasil: “No. What they say is a complete lie. Nothing is planned. I have one more year left on my contract with Al-Hilal. I hope to have a good season. I missed that last one.
“Let's live slowly. There is plenty of time ahead. Obviously, Santos is my favorite team, one day I want to come back, yes, but I have nothing planned in my head.”
✋🏽😜🤚🏽 …. Enquwanto isso vamos somando +1 🏆🥇
Parabéns pelo ano incredible time, vocês foram demais e hoje se superaram mais uma vez!
Obrigado pelos títulos esse ano 3️⃣ próxima temporada deixa comigo 😜
LET'S GO HILALI @Alhilal_FC
This year it is Saudi BLUE 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/u890zl2raH— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) May 31, 2024
Neymar praises Vinicius Jnr
Neymar will miss the upcoming Copa America where Brazil will hope to fight to regain the title from their rivals Argentina.
For that to happen, Brazil will need Vinicius Jnr to play at his best.
The Real Madrid forward scored the second goal in their 2-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on Saturday and Neymar believes his compatriot is now favorite to win the coveted Ballon d'Or.
He said: “Regarding Vini, obviously I think the Ballon d'Or belongs to him.
“Send me [him] messages before and after [Champions League final] the game. He is a boy I love passionately, the best friend football has given me. He will definitely be crowned the Ballon d'Or.
“You are amazing. Carrying the flag of our country around the world and we really fight for him.”
The last Brazilian to win this award was Kaka in 2007.
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