Diario AS Criticizes Neymar’s Display as Santos’ Relegation Woes Worsen

Overview

• Spanish daily AS, cited by Terra, said Neymar looked slow and off rhythm, at times hindering teammates, and suggested extended poor form could threaten his 2026 Brazil call-up.
• Neymar protested his second-half substitution in the 3-2 loss to Flamengo at the Maracanã, though he created danger with a free kick and a near-equalizing header.
• Coach Pedro Vojvoda called the reaction normal and not disrespectful, stressing the player’s wish to help during a difficult spell for the club.
• Club sources told O Globo he remains short of ideal condition after a grade-2 right-thigh injury and will be preserved when he cannot influence games to avoid further setbacks.
• The defeat left Santos 17th with a five-match winless run and a 59.4% relegation probability per UFMG, with a rescheduled home game against leaders Palmeiras next.