Neymar Frustrated as Santos Edge Closer to Relegation

Neymar stormed off after being substituted in the 85th minute during Santos’ 3-2 loss to Flamengo. Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda called his reaction normal. The 33-year-old, returning from a 48-day injury layoff, has scored three goals in 15 league matches. With Santos just above relegation, Neymar may leave if they drop.

Doing the headlines in Brazil, Neymar’s frustration took centre stage as Santos slipped closer to relegation after a 3-2 defeat to Flamengo. The 33-year-old forward, who recently returned from a 48-day injury layoff, started the game but was substituted in the 85th minute with Santos trailing 3-0. Unhappy with the decision, Neymar questioned coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda before heading straight to the locker room, refusing to remain on the bench until full-time.

Vojvoda later downplayed the incident, calling Neymar’s reaction “totally normal” and stressing that there was no disrespect involved, only the desire of a player to help his struggling team. Despite Neymar’s early exit, Santos scored two late goals, but the comeback fell short as they remained just one spot above the relegation zone. Neymar has managed three goals in 15 league appearances since rejoining his boyhood club, but his future now looks uncertain.

According to ESPN Brazil, sources close to the player revealed that he is considering leaving if Santos fail to survive in the top division. The defeat and Neymar’s reaction have added pressure to a side already battling for survival in one of the toughest periods in the club’s storied history.