
Neymar (foto: Getty Images)
Neymar’s return to Santos has sparked a frenzy, with 20,000 new members joining the club, record ticket sales, and a massive surge in social media following.
The impact of Neymar’s return to Santos has been nothing short of spectacular. Brazilian media are amazed at how much influence the former PSG and Barcelona star has had on his boyhood club, despite not yet making his debut after leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
Last week, Neymar stunned the football world by opting to return to Santos, the club where he first rose to prominence. Despite offers from Europe and the MLS, he chose to go home—and the response from fans has been overwhelming.
Massive surge in club membership and ticket demand
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira confirmed that the club has surpassed 70,000 official members for the first time, with over 20,000 joining in just a few days following Neymar’s signing.
At Vila Belmiro Stadium, which holds just 16,000 spectators, fans are now fighting for every available ticket. Neymar’s anticipated debut on Wednesday against Botafogo saw tickets sell out in record time.
Explosive growth on social media
The Neymar effect is also evident on social media. Santos’ Instagram following jumped from 3.5 million to over 4 million—virtually overnight.