“They’re going to be relegated because of Neymar” - Former Brazilian player calls Neymar a ‘disgrace’ as he launches attack on Santos star

Former Brazil international José Ferreira Neto has blasted Santos superstar Neymar for his lack of work ethic during their 3-2 loss against Flamengo (November 9). Neto believes that the former Barcelona attacker isn't helping Santos and will be the reason they get relegated from the Brazilian Serie A this season.

Santos' struggles showed no signs of stopping as they succumbed to a 3-2 loss against Flamengo. Neymar was unable to make an impact during his 85 minutes on the pitch, as he created one chance and landed one shot on target from two attempts, missing one big opportunity in the process.

The 33-year-old was subbed off in the 85th minute while his side were losing 3-0. However, the visitors notably looked revamped following this change, scoring two goals through Gabriel Bontempo (89') and Lautaro Diaz (90+1').

Neto was left far from impressed, stating (via @TouchlineX):

"Santos fans think Neymar will bring glory back, but they’re going to be relegated because of him and the president. It’s Neymar’s fault and that of his followers. Look how different the team is without him. You’re a disgrace, Neymar! You didn’t play at all, damn it. You just walked around the field. You went to the Formula 1, met the drivers, then started the game and did nothing. It’s shameful to play football like that."

He added:

"Santos scored two goals after you left. If they had played the whole game like they did in the second half, they might have won or at least drawn. You’re not helping this team."

Santos are currently 17th in the league table with 33 points from 32 games and are languishing in the relegation zone, two points behind 16th-placed Vitoria. The Brazilian has struggled for form this season, recording six goals and three assists in 25 appearances across competitions.

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"Where it will never end" - When Neymar revealed why he snubbed Barcelona to re-sign with Santos

Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) legend Neymar revealed that he re-signed with Santos in June earlier this year because he listened to his heart, and it's where he felt truly happy. The Brazilian was reportedly linked with numerous European clubs, including Barcelona, but signed a new deal with Santos, valid until December 2025.

The 33-year-old told Santos' official website (via GOAL):

"I made a decision and I listened to my heart. Santos is not just my team, it is my home, my roots, my history and my life. Here I was a boy who became a man, and I am truly loved. Here I can be myself, truly happy. And it is here that I want to fulfil the dreams that are missing in my career. And nothing will stop me. I go, I come back and I stay. Where it all began and where it will never end."

The Brazil international re-joined his boyhood side Santos in January 2025 to get his career back on track after mutually terminating his contract with Al-Hilal. Unfortunately, he has suffered three hamstring injuries since then, missing a total of 17 games across competitions.

Edited by Silas Sud