Neymar Jr. netted Santos’ sole goal in a 1-1 stalemate against Deportivo Recoleta on Tuesday during a Copa Sudamericana group stage encounter. Following the match, he was involved in an altercation with a supporter as the team exited the field amidst a chorus of boos.
The Brazilian forward gave Santos the lead at Vila Belmiro with his first goal since returning from injury, but the Paraguayan team, participating in its inaugural international tournament, leveled the score, leaving Santos at the bottom of Group E.
Prior to an interview with ESPN Brasil, Neymar reacted to the jeering fans by making a “shush” gesture. He subsequently attempted to clarify the team’s inability to secure a win.
“We made errors. We all made errors; it happens. I believe we created numerous opportunities. We performed well, we certainly did not play poorly. The fans become anxious and expect us to exert more effort, but our team is playing and generating chances. I comprehend the frustration, but they need to understand that football is like this; sometimes the ball simply does not go in,” Neymar stated.
After completing his sideline interviews and moving towards the tunnel, Neymar once again exchanged remarks with the crowd, specifically addressing one supporter by calling him “chubby.”
“You should have trained more. You’re getting chubby!” he remarked with a chuckle. Neymar initially started to walk away but turned back to add: “You’re right… are you satisfied now? Am I spoiled? I’m giving my utmost effort out here. I’m going to give you your moment of fame.”
Neymar is aiming to participate in his fourth World Cup this summer, although injuries have kept him from the national team since October 2023. He underwent minor surgery on his left knee on December 22 and had a follow-up procedure earlier this month to ensure he is “raring to go” for the World Cup in June.
