Santos forward Neymar responded to public criticism from former player and television presenter Neto by calling him an “otário” (sucker) on an Instagram post, following commentary regarding the player’s participation in a poker tournament during his club’s Copa Sul-Sudamericana fixture, according to reports published on July 24, 2026.
The Clash Between Neymar and Neto Over Poker Participation
The online altercation began after Neto criticized Neymar’s off-field activities on his Rádio Craque Neto program. According to the broadcaster, Neymar’s decision to play poker while sidelined from the Santos squad showed a lack of appropriate focus. Neto stated that while the player is free to be a billionaire and train as he wishes, supporters should not be treated as fools, labeling the forward a “bebezinho” (little baby).
Neto also pointed to the financial situation of the club, noting that Santos is facing financial difficulties. “That is such an unnecessary thing from a guy as grand as you,” Neto said, adding that the forward has been on leave for seven years.
Did you know?
Neto delivered his commentary directly through his media outlet, Rádio Craque Neto, before the dispute spilled over into social media comment sections.
Neymar Defends His Free Time on Social Media
The dispute intensified after Neymar addressed his critics directly through a video published on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The player explained that he was preparing for a second training session when he recalled commentary surrounding his poker game during his designated day off.
According to Neymar, he worked in the morning and did not travel with the Santos squad to Venezuela because he had only recently returned to active training. The team secured a 4-1 victory against Universidad Central de Venezuela without him on the pitch. “The next day, I was off,” Neymar stated in his defense video.
Social Media Escalation and Public Reaction
Following the video, sports journalist Thiago Asmar, known as Pilhado, shared a post regarding the ongoing exchange. Neymar entered the comment section of Asmar’s post to target Neto directly. According to the post comments, Neymar wrote, “Chato pra c…, vai se f… esse otário” (Annoying as hell, go f… yourself, this sucker).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Neymar miss the Santos match in Venezuela?
Neymar stayed behind because he had recently returned to training with the squad, according to his statements addressing the trip.
What triggered the public argument with Neto?
Neto criticized Neymar for playing in a poker tournament during his day off rather than traveling with Santos for their Copa Sul-Americana fixture.
How did Neymar respond to Neto’s comments?
Neymar posted a video defending his schedule on July 23, 2026, and later left a critical comment on an Instagram post by journalist Thiago Asmar.
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