Neymar has rejected reports that he singled out young Santos teammates during half-time against Chapecoense and accused critics of spreading “lies” after fresh controversy surrounded the Brazilian forward.
Brazilian media claimed Neymar criticised Gabriel Bontempo and João Ananias in the dressing room during Santos’ 2-2 draw with Chapecoense. The reports alleged he called Bontempo “stupid” and questioned Ananias’ tactical ability after the midfielder’s own goal in the 62nd minute.
Neymar responded on Instagram and insisted the reports misrepresented what happened.
“I’ve heard the rumours that I criticised the young players in the dressing room. That’s simply not true. To those posting these stories, stop. Don’t lie.”
The 33-year-old said he addressed the entire squad rather than any individual player.
“You can ask anyone in the dressing room. I spoke to the team. Lucas, Araujo, Gabi and Brazão also spoke. Everyone did. Of course we criticised ourselves because we’re competitors who want to win. But no young player was singled out.”
Neymar then criticised those behind the reports.
“Enough of the lies. From now on I won’t accept these false stories spread on the internet. Criticism in the dressing room, whoever delivers it, is normal. Those who spread these malicious and false reports understand nothing about football and have never been part of a team.”
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward had already responded to criticism before half-time. He scored twice against Chapecoense and celebrated by mimicking a poker game, a reference to recent criticism after he attended a poker tournament instead of training.
His afternoon ended on another sour note. Neymar received a yellow card after pushing two opposition players and will miss Santos’ next match through suspension.
