RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Corinthians forward Memphis Depay has praised Neymar's decision to return to Santos, describing it as a boon for Brazilian football.

Neymar signed a six-month contract with the club where he began his career on Friday after ending an injury-hit spell at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal by mutual consent.

"Brother, the move you made to come back to the place you came from is bigger than football," Depay said in a social media post on Saturday.

"You inspire a whole nation. You are the reason the kids in the favelas will be outside with the ball dreaming to make it in life."

Depay scored seven goals in 17 games for Corinthians last year, having joined the club on a free transfer in September. His performances helped the Sao Paulo outfit rise from the relegation zone and earn a place in this year's Copa Libertadores, South America's top club competition.

The 30-year-old former Manchester United, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid forward predicted Neymar's move would motivate other high-profile footballers to play in Brazil.

"The Brazilian competition is elevating," the Netherlands international said. "It's the most exciting football competition I've seen so far. So many more players will follow and move to Brazil. I'm proud of you and wish you nothing but the best as a brother."

Neymar, who played for Santos from 2009 to 2013, is expected to be available for the club's home clash against Botafogo-SP on Wednesday. Enditem

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