No Easy Comeback: Barcelona Sets a Tough Condition for Neymar

Published March 3rd, 2025 - 09:10 GMT
Barcelona to Neymar: Earn Your Return!
Barcelona to Neymar: Earn Your Return! (Photo by NELSON ALMEIDA / AFP)

Neymar’s return to Barcelona is far from guaranteed, as the club has set a strict requirement before even considering signing him again.

According to SPORT, the Catalan giants have informed Neymar that he must score 15 goals with Santos before they will entertain any discussions about his potential comeback.

Neymar Wants to Return

The Brazilian star has never hidden his desire to wear the Barcelona jersey again. His name has resurfaced in conversations around the club, largely due to his continued presence in the media spotlight. However, the Blaugrana management remains firm—before any negotiations take place, Neymar must prove he still has what it takes to perform at the highest level.

There are two main reasons behind Neymar’s desire to return to Barcelona:

To prove himself again at the top level, especially after the challenges he has faced in recent years.
To prepare for the 2026 World Cup, where he will be 34 years old. He sees a move to Barcelona as the perfect motivation to regain his best form.

Barcelona’s Stance: No Rush to Make a Decision

While Neymar is eager to return, Barcelona is in no hurry to bring him back. The club wants to carefully evaluate his physical and technical condition during the summer before making any commitments.

At this stage, there have been no formal negotiations between Neymar’s representatives and Barcelona. If talks do happen, Deco would be the key figure handling the discussions from the club’s side.

Even if Neymar manages to meet Barcelona’s condition, his return is not guaranteed due to the club’s financial situation. With an already complex wage structure, accommodating Neymar’s salary could be a major hurdle.

Now, the question remains: Can Neymar meet Barcelona’s challenge and prove he deserves a second chance at Camp Nou?

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