Neymar’s Carnival Controversy: A Distraction or Justified Absence?
It’s a story that seems to have all the elements of a classic sports drama: a high-profile player, a crucial match, and a controversial absence. Neymar, the Brazilian superstar, has found himself at the center of a storm of criticism after missing a key semifinal match for Santos against their archrival Corinthians. The match, which ended in a 2-1 defeat for Santos, was part of the Sao Paulo state championship, and Neymar’s absence has sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits alike.
On the surface, Neymar’s reason for missing the match seems straightforward. He cited a minor injury as the cause of his absence, a claim he made on Monday following the game. However, the waters were muddied when photos emerged of Neymar enjoying the glitzy Carnival parade at Rio de Janeiro’s Sambadrome just days before the match. This has led to accusations that Neymar prioritized the festivities over his professional commitments.
Neymar, who rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January, was seen at the Carnival parade only hours after being substituted in the second half of another Sao Paulo state championship match on March 2 due to an apparent left thigh injury. This has raised questions about the seriousness of his injury and his commitment to the team.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact that Neymar recently recovered from an ACL tear that sidelined him for more than a year. Despite this, Santos did not reveal any injuries before Sunday’s semifinal, leaving fans and analysts to speculate about the true nature of Neymar’s absence.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Neymar expressed his frustration at not being able to play. “All I wanted was to be on the pitch and help my teammates in some way,” he said. “But last Thursday I felt a discomfort that prevented me from being on the pitch. We took a test this morning and I ended up feeling it again.”
Santos coach Pedro Caixinha supported Neymar’s decision to stay on the bench, stating, “It was just a discomfort, but it meant he couldn’t participate. It was my request and he agreed to be with the squad.” Caixinha praised Neymar’s energy and expressed sympathy for his situation, saying, “Neymar suffered a lot for not being able to participate in the game.”
Despite this, many pundits have been quick to criticize Neymar. Walter Casagrande Jr., a popular pundit, took to social media to voice his disapproval, saying, “He chose Carnival over the semifinal. Neymar’s behavior of the last five, six years has come back. He switches the professional side for pleasure and fun.”
Santos president Marcelo Texeira defended Neymar, stating that he was examined several times from Friday to Sunday and was deemed unfit to play against Corinthians. “It is a precaution, we understood we shouldn’t [play him],” Teixeira said. “It is not about the national team, it is because he had not conditions [to play]. He is in a process of recovery. We need to understand that.”
Spanish newspaper Marca described the situation as “Neymar’s saddest Carnival after being tossed by Barcelona; on the bench and knocked out.” This sentiment was echoed by many who felt that Neymar’s actions were a distraction from his professional responsibilities.
In an attempt to quell the criticism, Santos released a video of a tearful Neymar speaking to his teammates in the dressing room before the semifinal. “It is very hard to be out in moments like this. I am trying to control myself in every way, not show the sadness I am feeling,” Neymar said. “If you can, run for me. I wish I could be with you, running for each of you. You don’t know how desperate I am in my heart.”
Despite the controversy, Neymar’s performance on the field has been impressive since his return to Santos. The 33-year-old striker has scored three goals and provided three assists in seven matches. These stats have convinced Brazil coach Dorival Jr. to recall him for World Cup qualifiers this month against Colombia and Argentina.
Looking ahead, Neymar’s next match for Santos is likely on March 29, after the international window, in the opening round of the Brazilian league against Vasco da Gama. Santos were promoted to the country’s top league after its 2023 relegation.
- Neymar’s absence from the semifinal has sparked a debate about his commitment to Santos.
- Photos of Neymar at Carnival have led to accusations of prioritizing festivities over football.
- Santos coach and president have defended Neymar, citing injury concerns.
- Neymar’s performance since returning to Santos has been strong, earning him a recall to the Brazil national team.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
