Algerian international Billal Brahimi credits Neymar Jr for helping him settle at Santos FC

Billal Brahimi says Neymar has played a crucial role in helping him adapt to life in Brazil following his surprise move to Santos FC.

The 25-year-old Algerian international joined the historic Brazilian club this summer on a free transfer after the end of his contract with OGC Nice.

Keen to revive his career and push for a return to the national team, Brahimi admits his transition has been made easier by the warm welcome of Neymar, who recently returned to his boyhood side.

Neymar put me at ease. I was even shocked by his level of French. It didn’t match what I had heard, Brahimi told L’Équipe. He knew I was playing with Dante in Nice. He told me he was there for me if I had any problems, even with my settling in. He also asked the coach not to hesitate to come and see him so he could pass on messages to me.

The winger, who featured regularly in Ligue 1 before opting for a new challenge in South America, expressed his admiration for his new teammate both on and off the pitch.

And what a player! Even if he’s not yet at 100%, on the toros, he’s world class. It’s a thrill to play with him, Brahimi added.

Brahimi’s decision to join Santos was unexpected, but he insists the move represents an ideal opportunity to showcase his talent on a different stage.

With the Brazilian league offering a distinct style of play and a demanding environment, he views this chapter as a chance to demonstrate his quality and win back a place with the Fennecs.

I have to perform well here. I’m at a big club and that increases my chances of being called up, he said.

For the former Nice forward, the Brazilian adventure is about more than football.

Adjusting to a new culture, style of play and level of expectation has given him fresh motivation.

Training alongside Neymar and other established talents at Santos has provided both inspiration and guidance at a pivotal stage of his career.

🚨🇩🇿 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 | Bilal Brahimi (25) has signed for Brazilian team Santos FC. ⚫️⚪️

He played in France for the majority of his career, now will be playing with Neymar Jr.

Brahimi is now Santos FC’s first ever Algerian player. pic.twitter.com/0bpu8ArFzF

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) September 26, 2025

The presence of Neymar, a global superstar and national icon, has added further weight to Brahimi’s ambitions.

By learning from his experience and professionalism, the Algerian hopes to refine his game and add consistency to his performances.

Santos, a club steeped in history and renowned for nurturing stars such as Pelé and Robinho, now offers Brahimi the platform he has been searching for.

His success in Brazil could prove decisive not only for his club career but also for reigniting his international journey with Algeria.