Neymar has forcefully rejected claims he verbally attacked younger teammates during Santos' 2-2 draw against Chapecoense, calling the reports "malicious lies" spread by Brazilian media. The forward addressed the controversy directly through an Instagram video, clarifying that any criticism in the dressing room was directed at the entire squad, not individual players.
What the Reports Claimed
Brazilian newspaper Globo Esporte alleged that Neymar singled out two young players at half-time. The publication reported he called Gabriel Bontempo "an idiot" and suggested the defender move to bottom-of-the-table Chapecoense. The outlet also claimed he questioned the technical abilities of João Ananias, who scored an own goal in the 62nd minute, creating tension within the playing squad and coaching staff.
According to the report, the incident sparked widespread displeasure among players, staff, and board members at the Brazilian club.
Neymar's Strong Denial
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker wasted no time responding. In his video statement, Neymar insisted: "I see some rumours going around about me rebuking the younger players in the dressing room. This is not true at all." He emphasized that criticism came from multiple senior figures, not just himself.
"It was a rebuke of the team," Neymar explained. "I spoke, and Lucas spoke, and Arão, and Gabi, and Brazão... everyone." He stressed that competitive rebukes are normal in football culture and that targeting individuals had not occurred. The Brazil international then escalated his criticism of the media, stating: "From now on, I will not accept those lies you post on the internet. Those who publish these malicious and false reports understand nothing, they do not know what football is and have never been part of a team."
Match Performance and Consequences
Neymar's on-pitch performance drew as much attention as the dressing-room drama. He marked Santos' opening goal in the 36th minute with an unconventional celebration, first miming a poker game before using the corner flag as a mock golf club—an apparent jab at his detractors. The display earned him a yellow card when he shoved two opposition players, accumulating bookings that will sideline him for the next fixture.
The controversy underscores ongoing scrutiny surrounding Neymar at the Brazilian club, where tensions between elite players and younger squad members occasionally surface during disappointing results or draws.
