Artificial Intelligence has struck again in the world of football, and this time in a truly exciting way: convincing Neymar and his father, who is also his manager, to sign for Santos.
Decisive in this process was a video created with Artificial Intelligence, where Pelé himself, with his voice magically recreated, calls on the former Al Hilal, PSG and Barcelona star to return to the Brazilian club: "Santos and Brazil need you, Ney. I think only one person can wear my jersey. I allow you to use my throne and crown."
There is still no official confirmation, but everything seems perfectly prepared: Neymar is ready to return home, to Santos, the club where his extraordinary journey began, which then led him to glory with Barcelona, dreams with PSG and celebrations in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal. In the middle of this adventure are also 130 appearances with the Brazilian national team.
But what has convinced Neymar and his manager to turn their attention to Santos is not a financial offer, but a technological "trick" that is making the rounds on the internet: Pelé's voice, recreated by Artificial Intelligence, which definitively announces Neymar as his heir.
For Brazilian fans, it doesn't matter if the legend's voice was created by an algorithm. The emotion was still overwhelming.
“Hello, Ney. Maybe you know who's talking to you. How's our Peixe, eh? From up here I see everything. Hard times. The city is sad. The city has become dark. My throne is empty. My jersey has been saved, and no one has come yet to wear it. In fact, I think only one person can do it.”
The message continues with a touching and nostalgic tone:
“A certain boy who grew up here, won everything and was happiest right here. He became a national idol and then traveled the world to become a global star. You and I are like that, Ney. Not only Santos, but Brazil needs you again. Listen to your heart, come home. To your city. To your people. I will let you use my throne and crown. Put on your show again at Vila and prepare to lead us to a sixth world title. Do you remember what you promised? 'I will leave, but I will return.' I will always applaud you from up here. My prince.”
« Je te permets d'utiliser mon trône et ma couronne » ??????????????????
— Instant Foot ⚽️ (@lnstantFoot) January 28, 2025
The video that Santos made with Artificial Intelligence to recreate the voice of Pelé and convince Neymar to return to Santos. ⬇️????
pic.twitter.com/T8KnzNbLj2
This message, according to Brazilian media, has touched Neymar's father so much that he has put aside the financial aspect and decided to follow his heart.
Meanwhile, Santos has started posting numerous messages on social media regarding Neymar's return, which is expected to be made official this weekend. Initially, he will sign a five-month contract until the end of the season, with the option to renew for another year. This would allow him to play for Santos until the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.