Neymar 'lost for words' as he makes emotional Santos comeback - but suffers double blow

Neymar was determined to not let a nightmare return for Santos get in the way of his emotional reunion with the club. The Brazilian winger returned to his boyhood club during the winter transfer window, leaving his multi-million Al-Hilal contract behind. Neymar has initially penned a six-month deal with the club but has not ruled out an extended stay. Despite a rotten time in Saudi Arabia with injuries, the 32-year-old has already taken to the pitch. Neymar - who has been given the number 10 shirt - was introduced as a second-half substitute in Santos’ clash with Botafogo.

Tiquinho Soares had given Santos the lead with a first-half penalty, with Neymar aiming to close out victory. But he endured a nightmare start as a powerful pass from Botafogo star Edson struck the former Barcelona winger in the groin just seconds after his introduction, leaving him to crumple to the floor in understandable pain. And to rub salt into the wounds, Botafogo equalised in the 67th minute through Alexandre de Jesus. And despite Wallison being sent off for the visitors, Santos were not able to find a winner.

Regardless, Neymar was determined to not let the result ruin his moment. He said: "I love Santos. I have no words to describe what I felt tonight when I stepped again on this pitch. "I need minutes, games. I'm not at 100%. I didn't expect to run and dribble so much tonight. I think I'll feel better in four or five games.". Neymar will get another chance to play for Santos over the coming week, so long as he hasn’t picked up any fresh injury issues. The Brazilian side take on Novorizontino on Sunday evening.

Will Neymar ever return to Europe? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Speaking at his unveiling, the winger revealed he was happy to play in whatever position is asked of him in order to help the side out. He said: "I came to find my happiness, which is playing football. That's why I came to help. "The coach decides. Wherever he needs me, I am available, whether as a winger, striker, central defender, or midfielder... I'm here to help. I came to bring something extra to the team. I know who I am and what my potential is, but I want to help in any role. I have a thirst for victory.".

Explaining about his decision to move back to Brazil, Neymar added: "Some decisions go beyond the logic of football. I admit that at the beginning of the month, I could not imagine leaving Al-Hilal. I was very happy there, and so was my family. “Then things happened, and I had to make a decision. I started to feel sad every day... The opportunity to return presented itself, and I didn't think twice. From day one, I decided I wanted to return to Santos. It feels like I am rejuvenating. I feel like I'm 17 again.".

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