'It is important' - Vinicius Jr. backs Neymar for Santos return

Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. has now weighed in on the possibility of Neymar's return to Santos, stating that it would be "important" for the veteran winger to return to his home country.

Rumours have been swirling about Neymar's potential return to his boyhood club, Santos, in Brazil. His time with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal appears to be nearing its end.

His contract will expire at the end of the season, and with his non-registration for the second half of the Saudi Pro League campaign, speculation about his next move is rife.

In an interview with TNT Sports Brazil, Vinicius described Neymar as "our idol" and expressed hope that "he can return as soon as possible."

He further revealed the importance of Neymar's presence in Brazilian football, particularly for Santos.

He said, "It is important for Brazil to have a player like Ney, even more so for Santos, which is his home. He is undoubtedly a Brazilian player who played so well in Brazil and was then able to make history abroad. I hope that he makes a calm decision and that he and his whole family are happy."  

Neymar has previously expressed his desire to be fit for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, raising the possibility of him and Vinicius playing together on the world stage before Neymar potentially passes the torch to the younger Real Madrid star.