Despite being one of the most naturally talented players of the last 20 years, Neymar has yet to win despite his emotional return to Santos.

It was another game without a victory, but he did have a nice moment with Memphis Depay after the loss to Corinthians, who now have the former Manchester United forward. In a mini-reunion of two former rivals from their Ligue 1 days, the two did trade jerseys and boots, but that feels like a lifetime ago today.

After back-to-back draws with Botofogo SP and Novorizontino, Neymar lost 2-1 to Depay’s team in his third game since returning to Brazil. Additionally, following his protracted absence, he has yet to play more than 74 minutes in a game.

Still, there is a lot of excitement. Many have been eager to see him return to his Brazilian football roots, where the beautiful game is most cherished, after having only enjoyed a glorified paid vacation in the Saudi Pro League. We are also getting a few glimpses of that thrilling “Joga Bonito” style that is less common in the modern game.

Social media was ecstatic to witness him display a stunning display of talent that brought back memories of the long-dormant “old Neymar.” Neymar simply watched in amazement as he strode off with the ball after controlling a challenging ball with his chest and then flicking it around a defender on the half-volley with his heel.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player hasn’t contributed a goal in three games, but it’s not for want of effort in the struggle between style and substance.

He had only played seven club-level games since late 2023 because to knee and hamstring problems at the age of 33, so a lengthy absence was bound to cause him to start slowly when he did play again.

Fans still anticipate him to be too good for the Brazilian top division, which hasn’t happened yet, because of the high level of enthusiasm and the weight of his name.

He has attempted seven dribbles on average per game in his three appearances thus far, averaging less than three.

With four crucial passes and four effective crosses in six attempts, his performance against Corinthians was possibly his best to date, demonstrating his gradual transition back to regular football in a comfortable setting.