Neymar’s 2026 FIFA World Cup plan takes shape: Brazil veteran takes up new role at Santos following Gabigol’s arrival

With Neymar's future secured and his focus sharpened by the looming World Cup, Santos has dared to dream again—this time by reuniting two of the most emblematic forwards of a generation.

Neymar has never stopped being the emotional axis around which Santos revolves, and as the club looks ahead to 2026, that gravity is only growing stronger. With his future secured and his focus sharpened by the looming World Cup, Santos has dared to dream again—this time by reuniting two of the most emblematic forwards of a generation. The announcement sent shockwaves through Brazilian soccer, reviving memories of flair, goals, and unfinished stories.

At the heart of it all are Neymar and Gabigol, two names inseparable from Santos’ modern identity, now sharing a pitch once more as the club tries to transform nostalgia into competitive momentum. The Peixe confirmed the return of Gabriel Barbosa, widely known as Gabigol, on loan from Cruzeiro until the end of the 2026 season. There is no purchase option attached, but the symbolism of the deal goes far beyond contractual clauses.

The striker’s comeback marks his third spell at Santos, the club where his professional journey began and where his reputation as a ruthless finisher was forged. Across all competitions, Gabigol has already amassed 210 appearances and 84 goals, including a Brazilian Serie A top-scorer crown in 2018.

From Cruzeiro’s perspective, the decision was rooted in pragmatism rather than sentiment. The 29-year-old’s time at the club became increasingly complicated over the past year. Despite contributing 17 goals across 43 appearances, he struggled to maintain a consistent starting role, eventually losing ground to younger, in-form attackers.

A missed penalty in a decisive cup tie, combined with a coaching change and strained relationships, pushed the situation toward a natural conclusion. Allowing the loan eased financial pressure and resolved a sporting impasse, while granting the forward the reset he openly sought.

Nostalgia meets ambition

For Santos supporters, the reunion carries deep emotional weight. Gabigol’s first senior season in 2013 coincided with Neymar’s farewell year before his move to Europe. More than a decade later, the two are reunited at Vila Belmiro—this time as seasoned stars rather than prodigies.

On paper, the pairing instantly becomes one of the most glamorous attacking duos in Brazilian soccer. More importantly, it signals Santos’ intent to move beyond survival and back toward relevance, both domestically and continentally.

How Neymar can help Gabigol

Thus, Neymar’s role is no longer limited to goals and assists. With his contract extended through December 2026 and his eyes fixed firmly on the World Cup, he has embraced a broader responsibility within the squad. Gabigol’s return places him alongside someone who understands the pressures of expectation, recovery, and reinvention better than almost anyone.

Their connection goes beyond tactics or shared history. The two previously formed the attacking spine of Brazil’s Olympic gold medal-winning team in 2016, and their bond has remained visible ever since. Now, that familiarity becomes a tool—one Santos believes can help the striker rediscover rhythm, confidence, and decisiveness.