Neymar Scores Twice in Dazzling Display for Santos with Three of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil Staff Members Watching On

Neymar’s Stellar Return to Santos

Following an injury-plagued stint at Al-Hilal and a controversial exit from Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar made a sensational return to his boyhood club Santos earlier this year. Many questioned whether the 33-year-old still had the magic, but recent weeks have shown a player fully revitalized and focused.

In this match, Neymar opened the scoring with a classic curling effort from outside the box in the 18th minute, reminiscent of his early Santos days. He followed it up with a tap-in in the 62nd minute after an intricate one-two with attacking partner Marcos Leonardo.

His movement, decision-making, and control were elite — a clear statement of intent that he remains one of the most technically gifted footballers in the world today.

Eyes from the National Team

Seated quietly in the stands were three members of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil backroom team: assistant coach Lucas Figueiredo, fitness coordinator Thiago Costa, and technical analyst Rafael Paiva. Their presence sparked curiosity even before kickoff, but Neymar’s performance gave them plenty to discuss.

Sources close to the national team revealed that the trio had been tasked with monitoring potential call-ups ahead of Brazil’s September international friendlies and World Cup qualifiers. While Neymar has not been a regular since his move to the Middle East, his return to form may have reshuffled the deck.

One insider commented: “Neymar’s ability to change a game is unmatched. If he maintains fitness and consistency, Ancelotti will definitely consider him for the squad.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil Project

The Italian tactician officially took charge of the Brazilian national team earlier this year, marking a historic shift for the Seleção. Tasked with blending experienced icons with emerging stars, Ancelotti has emphasized discipline, tactical flexibility, and selecting players on current form rather than reputation alone.

Neymar’s absence in recent squads was seen as a part of this new philosophy, but the door was never shut. Ancelotti himself noted in a June press briefing: “Neymar is a legend. When he’s healthy and playing at a high level, he’s always an option.”

Neymar’s Motivation: A Point to Prove

In a post-match interview, Neymar expressed satisfaction with his performance but also hinted at his burning desire to return to the national team setup. “I play for the love of the game, but of course, wearing the yellow jersey again is always a dream. I just want to stay fit, enjoy football, and give my best.”

Despite critics labeling him as past his prime, Neymar’s stats tell another story. In just 8 games since returning to Santos, he’s scored 7 goals and assisted 4, averaging a goal contribution every 58 minutes.

His current form is not only lifting Santos in the Brasileirão standings but also proving that he still belongs among football’s elite.

Public Reaction and Fan Buzz

Fans were ecstatic both inside the stadium and on social media. The hashtags #NeymarIsBack and #NeymarToBrazil trended nationwide within hours. Former players, pundits, and even rivals commended his resurgence.

Renowned football journalist Ricardo Oliveira tweeted: “That was vintage Neymar tonight — confident, sharp, and electric. Brazil might need his magic again.”

With growing fan pressure and undeniable on-pitch output, it may only be a matter of time before Ancelotti calls up Neymar again.

The Bigger Picture for Santos

For Santos, Neymar’s return has been a marketing and sporting masterstroke. The club has seen increased ticket sales, TV ratings, and sponsorship deals. But beyond the commercial impact, his leadership on the pitch is proving invaluable to the squad.

Head coach Fábio Carille praised Neymar’s influence: “He trains hard, mentors the younger players, and brings belief to this team. We’re lucky to have him.”

With Neymar leading the charge, Santos now sits fourth on the league table and looks poised for a strong finish and potential Copa Libertadores qualification.

What’s Next for Neymar?

Looking ahead, Neymar is expected to continue featuring prominently for Santos throughout the second half of the 2025 season. If he maintains form and avoids injury, a national team recall seems inevitable.

Brazil’s upcoming fixtures in September and October — including a high-profile clash against Argentina — could provide the perfect platform for a Neymar comeback.

Additionally, with the 2026 World Cup looming, the question is not just whether Neymar will return — but whether he will lead the team once more on the biggest stage of all.

Conclusion

Neymar’s brilliant performance against Cruzeiro may have been another win for Santos, but for the player himself, it was a loud reminder that his story is far from over. With the eyes of Brazil’s coaching staff upon him, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

As Carlo Ancelotti fine-tunes his World Cup blueprint, Neymar has reentered the conversation with style, confidence, and class. Whether he makes it back into the Seleção squad remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: Neymar is not done yet.

For now, fans will savor every magical touch, every goal, and every step of this unexpected, exhilarating new chapter in Neymar’s football journey.