Angry Neymar storms off with Santos threatened by relegation
SÃO PAULO, Brazil – Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda played down Neymar’s angry reaction to being substituted in Sunday’s 3–2 defeat to Flamengo, describing the incident as a normal emotional response from a competitive player.
The 33-year-old forward, who started the Brazilian league match at the Maracanã, was withdrawn in the 85th minute with Santos trailing 3–0. As he left the field, Neymar exchanged words with Vojvoda before heading straight to the dressing room, declining to remain on the bench for the remainder of the game.
“It’s logical that he was upset, just like any other player would be,” Vojvoda told reporters after the match. “But I decide who has to leave. He wasn’t disrespectful — the respect is there. Players want to play and want to help, especially in a difficult moment for the club.”
Santos, currently hovering one place above the relegation zone, managed to score twice after Neymar’s exit, but the late goals were not enough to secure a result.
Neymar recently returned from a 48-day layoff caused by a muscular injury and has scored three goals in 15 league appearances this season. His form and fitness have been closely monitored as Santos fight to avoid a first-ever relegation from Brazil’s top flight.
The episode underscores the tension surrounding the club’s battle for survival, with Neymar’s frustration reflecting the high stakes and pressure on Brazil’s most storied team. Despite the outburst, Vojvoda emphasized that the forward remains committed to helping Santos through their relegation fight.