Who is Neymar?
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, known as Neymar, is a Brazilian footballer who plays for and captains Santos, the club where he started. Famous for his dribbling, skill and creativity, he is Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer and assist provider.
Early life and background
Neymar was born in 1992 in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo. His father, a former footballer, guided his career from an early age. He played futsal and street football before joining Santos’s youth academy, where he quickly became a teenage sensation.
Career highlights
- Santos (2009–2013): led the club to the 2011 Copa Libertadores and was named the tournament’s best player.
- Barcelona (2013–2017): formed the famous “MSN” trio with Messi and Suárez, winning the 2015 Champions League as part of a treble.
- Paris Saint-Germain (2017–2023): joined in a world-record €222 million transfer.
- Al-Hilal (2023–2025): moved to Saudi Arabia before returning to Santos in 2025.
- Brazil: won Olympic gold in 2016 and became the national team’s record scorer.
Major achievements
He is one of few players to score more than 100 goals for three different clubs, and data rankings placed him among Europe’s top two players for five straight seasons.
Expertise
Neymar is known for close control, tricks, quick changes of direction and creating chances for team-mates.
Challenges
Injuries have interrupted many of his seasons, including at major tournaments, and his playing style often attracts heavy fouls.
Impact and philanthropy
He funds the Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr., which supports children and families in his home area of Praia Grande.
Timeline: key moments
- 1992Born in Mogi das Cruzes
- 2009Debut for Santos
- 2011Wins Copa Libertadores
- 2013Joins Barcelona
- 2015Wins Champions League
- 2016Olympic gold with Brazil
- 2017World-record move to PSG
- 2023Joins Al-Hilal; becomes Brazil’s top scorer
- 2025Returns to Santos
Neymar brought joy and flair to football, becoming Brazil’s greatest goalscorer.
