Neymar Downplays MLS Move, Committed to Finishing Santos Contract

Brazilian star says he intends to see out his deal with Brazilian club before considering other options

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a soccer player in action, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette, conveying the dynamic movement and uncertainty surrounding Neymar's career.Neymar's future remains uncertain as he balances his club commitments and World Cup aspirations.Cincinnati Today

Neymar Jr. has downplayed rumors of a potential move to MLS club FC Cincinnati, stating that he has a contract with Brazilian club Santos until the end of the year and intends to see it through. The Brazilian legend, who has dealt with ongoing injury issues, said he "honestly doesn't know" about the Ohio club's reported interest in signing him.

Why it matters

Neymar's potential move to MLS would have been a major coup for the league, bringing one of the sport's global superstars to the United States. However, his commitment to finishing his Santos contract suggests he is focused on playing in Brazil for the time being, rather than seeking a high-profile move abroad.

The details

Despite the reported advanced talks between FC Cincinnati and Neymar's camp, the 34-year-old forward played down the speculation, saying he has a contract with Santos until the end of 2026 that he intends to fulfill. Neymar has been productive when healthy this season, recording four goals and three assists in eight appearances, but his ability to play a full season has been limited by an ongoing knee injury.

  • Neymar's contract with Santos runs until the end of 2026.
  • Neymar told ESPN about his commitment to Santos in April 2026.

The players

Neymar Jr.

A 34-year-old Brazilian forward who currently plays for Santos in Brazil's Serie A. Neymar is a global superstar who previously played for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.

FC Cincinnati

An MLS club based in Cincinnati, Ohio that has been reportedly interested in signing Neymar.

Carlo Ancelotti

The manager of the Brazilian national team, who has said Neymar is still being evaluated for a potential spot on the 2026 World Cup roster.

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What they’re saying

“I honestly don't know. I have a contract with Santos until the end of the year, and I intend to see it through.”

— Neymar, Forward, Santos

“He's currently being evaluated by the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation), by me, and he still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup.”

— Carlo Ancelotti, Manager, Brazilian National Team

What’s next

Neymar will continue to be evaluated by the Brazilian national team staff as he looks to earn a spot on the 2026 World Cup roster. FC Cincinnati may continue to pursue other high-profile signings to bolster their roster, but Neymar appears committed to finishing his contract with Santos for now.

The takeaway

Neymar's commitment to seeing out his Santos contract demonstrates his focus on playing in Brazil, rather than seeking a lucrative move to MLS at this stage of his career. While the prospect of Neymar joining MLS would have been an exciting one, his decision to remain in Brazil highlights the continued pull of the domestic league for top Brazilian talent.