Neymar returned to the field earlier than expected by the player’s staff, in a 1-1 draw with Fortaleza. Despite the number 10’s excitement about defending Santos again, the continuation of the return is unknown. The main doubt now is their presence in this Thursday’s classic (6), against Palmeiras.
The reason is the synthetic grass at Allianz Parque, which the player himself has publicly criticized on several occasions.
The player’s staff and Santos fear that the type of surface could compromise the recovery process of the last six weeks, after the long period that Neymar spent away due to a muscle injury.
In the replay on Monday (3), the star only participated in regenerative work, together with the athletes who played for more than 45 minutes in the previous match.
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Neymar and the controversy over synthetic turf
Neymar’s possible return to Allianz Parque reignites an old controversy. Since before the return to Brazilian football, the number 10 has been one of the main critics of synthetic pitches, used in stadiums like Palmeiras. The player has already stated that playing on these surfaces “is impossible [jogar]” and that professional football should only be played on natural fields.
In February, the striker even participated in a protest campaign against the use of artificial pitches. Months later, when he performed on this type of surface for the first time, he spared no criticism and reinforced the discomfort with the impact on joints and muscle recovery.
Even though he has recovered and is motivated to help Santos in the final stretch of the season, Neymar will have to wait for a medical and technical evaluation in the coming days. The club must decide on Wednesday whether the athlete will be able to face Palmeiras.
What is Neymar’s situation?
Even with extra care and a controlled schedule, Neymar’s desire to help Santos in the fight against relegation could weigh heavily once again. The attacker has shown a willingness to return to action, even in the face of contrary guidance.
Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda recognizes the player’s importance at this moment, but warns that caution must be exercised. According to the coach, it is necessary to make decisions always thinking about the long term. He reinforced that Neymar’s presence must be assessed responsibly, prioritizing full physical recovery.
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Neymar out of Ancelotti’s squad
Santos’ number 10, once again, was left out of the list of those called up for the Brazilian team. At the event, which took place at the CBF on Monday (3), Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti justified the decision, stating that the physical status of the athletes called to defend Brazil is a priority.
— I didn’t speak to Neymar again. Let’s see when he can recover and play again — said Ancelotti, at the press conference.
According to journalists Rodrigo Mattos and Pedro Lopes, from UOL Esporte, the Seleção coach does not see Neymar as capable of performing with the intensity necessary to compete in the 2026 World Cup.
Behind-the-scenes sources claim, according to them, that the information about Neymar’s physical part is far below that of a high-level athlete. Furthermore, Ancelotti would not have shown sympathy for the player, considering that he has no commitment to football.
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