Neymar’s career continues to be a magnet for headlines, with the Brazilian superstar now lifting the lid on how close he was to joining Fluminense for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Speaking candidly on the Flow Podcast, the 33-year-old forward revealed that negotiations with the Rio de Janeiro-based club were at an advanced stage before he opted to remain at Santos, his boyhood team.
After enduring a frustrating spell at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, Neymar is looking to rejuvenate his playing career while proudly wearing the colors of Santos, with whom he first made his name on the world stage. His revelations also addressed persistent criticisms about his off-field lifestyle while reaffirming his pride in his long, illustrious journey in football.
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Neymar Almost Joined Fluminense for Club World Cup
Having already played for European heavyweights like FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar’s return to Brazil was marked by injury struggles. After joining Al-Hilal in a high-profile move from PSG in 2023, his stay in Saudi Arabia was derailed by serious fitness setbacks, including a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
During the podcast, Neymar disclosed that Fluminense came within touching distance of securing his signature for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the United States.
“I’m in good physical shape. We had these conversations with some teams to play in the [Club] World Cup, Fluminense was something that came very close to happening,” Neymar confirmed.
Ultimately, he chose to remain loyal to Santos and prioritize recovery. “But I preferred to stay to train a little more. I’m 100 per cent physically, but I need to get better to be able to come back in good shape,” he added.
Turning Down Offers to Focus on Recovery
The decision to stay at Santos rather than chase another quick move highlights Neymar’s awareness of his physical condition. After battling injuries in April and May, the Brazilian icon understood that rushing into action with another club might backfire. Instead, Santos offered both familiarity and the right environment to rehabilitate fully before contemplating another chapter.
Reports suggest Neymar is close to finalizing a contract extension with Santos until June 2026, signaling his commitment to both the club’s domestic ambitions and potential international ventures.
Addressing Criticism About His Lifestyle
Neymar also used his appearance on the Flow Podcast to hit back at critics who often focus more on his off-pitch antics than his football achievements.
“People have a certain image of me as a player. Many think that the parties I attended and the carnivals I went to were happening all the time. But I only did those things when I could on my days off, during vacation…” Neymar clarified.
Despite the persistent chatter, Neymar’s dedication to his profession remains unquestionable, having been a mainstay for both club and country for well over a decade.
Pride in a Glittering Career
With spells at FC Barcelona, PSG, and countless appearances for Brazil, Neymar’s résumé is among the most enviable in modern football. Speaking about his journey, he said, “I’ve been at a high level for 15 years, playing for great teams and representing the national team. That takes a lot of dedication and sacrifice. I know what it means to make it this far. I’m very proud of everything I’ve done.”
His move to Al-Hilal, while financially lucrative with a reported £129 million-a-year salary, ultimately turned sour due to his injury nightmare. After just five appearances, the Brazil star was sidelined for more than a year, leading to the eventual termination of his contract by mutual agreement.
Future Plans: Contract Extension and European Return?
Though his immediate focus remains on Santos, Neymar’s father has hinted that a return to Europe isn’t entirely out of the question. Plans are reportedly underway to visit Miami to assess possible opportunities with European clubs, potentially setting up a remarkable second European chapter for the former Barcelona ace.
For now, though, Neymar remains grounded in Santos, determined to regain his top form and perhaps, one day soon, light up the footballing world once again on the grandest stages.
Read More: Alvaro Valles Returns Home as Real Betis Secure Goalkeeper on 5-Year Deal
FAQs
Which team did Neymar almost join for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
Neymar revealed that he was “very close” to signing with Fluminense to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 but ultimately chose to stay at Santos.
Why did Neymar reject Fluminense’s offer?
Despite talks progressing with Fluminense, Neymar decided to remain at Santos to focus on regaining full match fitness after suffering a hamstring injury earlier in the year.
What did Neymar say about criticism regarding his lifestyle?
Neymar addressed misconceptions about his off-field behavior, stating, “Many think that the parties I attended and the carnivals I went to were happening all the time. But I only did those things when I could on my days off, during vacation…”
Is Neymar planning a return to European football?
While Neymar’s immediate future is tied to Santos, his father has indicated that they will explore potential offers from European clubs, leaving the door open for a possible comeback to Europe.
How successful was Neymar’s stint at Al-Hilal?
Neymar’s time at Al-Hilal was plagued by injuries, limiting him to just five appearances. The deal, despite its massive financial value, ended in disappointment with the mutual termination of his contract.
