How much does Neymar earns at Santos FC? All about his contract
Neymar Jr.'s return to Santos FC in 2025 has been one of the most talked-about moves in football. After leaving Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, where he earned an astonishing £2.5 million per week, Neymar signed a six-month contract with Santos. His base salary at the Brazilian club is reportedly around £135,507 per month, which marks a significant pay cut from his previous earnings. However, his contract is structured in a way that allows him to maximize earnings through sponsorships and commercial deals.
One of the key aspects of Neymar’s contract with Santos is his control over image rights. The deal gives him 90% of the revenue generated from his image rights, which means he can earn significantly more than his base salary. Reports suggest that, depending on the success of these commercial deals, Neymar’s total monthly earnings could reach around £819,433. This allows him to maintain a high level of income despite earning a relatively low base salary from the club itself.
The contract also includes various bonuses and performance-related incentives. If Neymar helps Santos achieve key objectives such as qualifying for international tournaments or winning domestic titles, he stands to earn additional bonuses. This performance-based approach is common in modern football contracts, especially for players of Neymar’s caliber. The agreement is structured to benefit both the club and the player, ensuring financial stability for Santos while keeping Neymar well-compensated.
Beyond financial terms, Neymar’s return to Santos is also a strategic move for his career and personal brand. The club has already seen a surge in jersey sales, ticket demand, and sponsorship interest since his arrival. His presence at Santos is not just about playing football; it is also about revitalizing the club’s marketability and attracting global attention. This commercial impact will likely contribute to his overall earnings, making the move financially rewarding in the long run.
Ultimately, Neymar’s contract with Santos represents a balance between sentimental value and financial strategy. While he is earning much less than he did in Saudi Arabia, his image rights, sponsorship deals, and bonuses ensure that he remains one of the highest-paid players in Brazil. His decision to return to his boyhood club reflects his emotional connection to Santos while still allowing him to maintain a lucrative career.