A Bangladeshi freelance photojournalist based in Brazil handed Neymar the Bangladesh national football jersey during a Santos training session in Sao Paulo last week.
Shahnur Rumen, originally from Bishwanath in Sylhet, seized the moment to present the shirt as a gift, telling the star about the millions of fans back home who follow Brazil and admire his game. The star, he says, did not brush it aside. He stopped, listened and held it.
“I told him that there are millions of football fans in Bangladesh who especially love Brazil and his game. He listened attentively and showed interest. He also praised the Bangladesh jersey.”
Shahnur later posted a video of the exchange on his Facebook profile, captioning it with words that carried a quiet pride: “The jersey of Hamza in the hands of Brazilian superstar Neymar! Bangladesh football is now catching the attention of global stars.” The post spread quickly, touching a nerve among fans at home who have long held a deep affection for the Brazilian national side.
“Neymar expressed his gratitude,” Shahnur added. “He was touched after hearing about the love from fans in Bangladesh.”
