Neymar’s Disappointing Santos Return Ends in Draw

On Wednesday, Brazilian striker Neymar returned to his childhood club Santos for a lackluster 1-1 tie with Botafogo in the Brazilian Paulista Championship. Before kickoff, ecstatic and tearful fans lit up their phones to greet the striker, who left the club 12 years ago, as a hero.

Neymar, who turned 33, started on the bench and came on after Tiquinho Soares’ first-half penalty gave Santos the lead. His first game in 16 months was stressful for the forward. Trying to recreate the alchemy that made him a world-class player for five years at Barcelona wasn’t enough.

Alexandre de Jesus pulled Botafogo level in the 67th minute. Wallison was sent off four minutes later for a foul on Neymar, but Santos failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage.

“The game was tough. I even mentioned my father was on the side. I stated it’s a tough game because they mark a lot in the back, defend much, and hit. A ball was found and scored. I should be patient and practice “the player said.

Al-Hilal signed Neymar from Paris St. Germain, but he only made seven appearances until damaging his left anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October.

The attacker says his return to Santos will complete his career by letting him “play football again”.