Neymar (34, Santos) spoke out directly about the controversy surrounding his fitness. He lamented the ongoing doubts ahead of the World Cup, saying, "Living as me is really difficult."
ESPN reported on the 12th (Korea time) that "Neymar rebutted criticism about his fitness ahead of the World Cup."
The controversy began with his absence from a Santos match. Neymar was left out of the squad for the league match against Mirassol on the 11th (2-2 draw). Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti also visited the stadium that day to watch the players.
Naturally, questions arose about a possible injury to Neymar. Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda immediately drew a line. He explained, "Neymar is not injured. He has no pain," adding, "He was given rest to manage training and match load because he hasn't been able to play many matches in recent years."
He added, "He will be properly prepared for the weekend match against Corinthians." Neymar also made a statement directly. Through his social media, he directly rebutted the various recent speculations.
Neymar wrote, "Many people are coming up with various theories about what is happening to me. But nothing is happening."
He added, "If I play carrying an injury like last year, I'm blamed for doing wrong, and if I think only of myself I'm blamed again. If I rest a little I'm wrong, and if I endure the pain and play I'm criticized for potentially making the situation worse."
He expressed his frustration, saying, "It's really difficult. Whatever I do it's hard to be seen as the right choice. It's really hard to satisfy everyone."
He added, "The most surprising thing—well, it's actually not surprising—is the people who talk as if they're next to me every day and make things up as if they were true. I have to put up with you all."
Neymar returned to Santos last month after undergoing left knee surgery on Dec. 22 last year. His current goal is to be named to Brazil's World Cup squad.
Because of the aftermath of the injury, Neymar has not played for the Brazil national team since Oct. 2023. Still, attention is focused on the possibility of his return to the national team given that he is the team's key striker and holds Brazil's all-time scoring record with 79 goals.
Coach Vojvoda also emphasized Neymar's value. He said, "Neymar is a very important player for all of Brazil," adding, "You can feel something special when you see him in training. There are not many players of this type, so he must be well managed."
Meanwhile, coach Ancelotti is expected to announce the Brazil squad that will play friendly matches against France and Croatia on the 17th.
Brazil will face France at Gillette Stadium in Boston on the 26th and play Croatia in Orlando on the 31st.
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