Neymar’s Frustrations Highlight Santos’ Struggles in Relegation Battle

An unusual incident occurred during the 66th minute of Santos’ match against Flamengo at the Maracana, as Neymar’s frustrations reached a boiling point. With Santos trailing 2-0, the 33-year-old forward urged his teammates to abandon their ineffective long-ball strategy in favor of short, controlled passes from the back. When his suggestions went unheeded, Neymar, usually positioned in the attack, took it upon himself to execute the goal kick, hoping to initiate the desired build-up play.

However, his initiative was swiftly thwarted. Moments later, centre-back Luan Peres attempted yet another long ball, which was easily intercepted by Flamengo, returning possession to the home side. Neymar was seen halting in his tracks, raising his arms in exasperation before shaking his head in disbelief.

This moment starkly illustrated the disconnect between Neymar and his teammates during a tumultuous season at Vila Belmiro. Having risen through the ranks at Santos and built his career on possession-based football at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar’s frustration with the lack of tactical cohesion since his return has been palpable. The video of the incident went viral online, with fans dubbing it “the most Neymar thing ever,” further amplifying scrutiny on the team’s communication and morale.

Later in the match, Neymar was substituted by head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, which only exacerbated his frustration. With Santos trailing 3-0 in the 85th minute, Vojvoda replaced Neymar with Argentine midfielder Benjamin Rollheiser. Cameras captured the visibly upset forward questioning the decision, mouthing, “Are you going to take me out?” before leaving the pitch and heading straight to the dressing room without waiting for the final whistle.

Santos managed to score two late consolation goals but ultimately lost 3-2, a result that kept them entrenched in the relegation zone, with only six matches left in the season. In post-match comments, Coach Vojvoda sought to downplay the tension, remarking that Neymar’s reaction was normal for a player eager to contribute. Nonetheless, Neymar’s early exit underscored the growing frustration within the Santos camp as the club continues its battle against relegation. The defeat to Flamengo left them two points adrift of safety, accumulating only 33 points from 32 games, thereby placing the eight-time Brazilian champions in serious jeopardy of dropping to Serie B.

Neymar’s personal challenges have mirrored those of the club. Since returning to Santos from Al-Hilal in January, he has managed only three goals and six assists in 15 matches, hindered by recurring injury problems.

The uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s future at Santos is attracting significant attention from the football community. Club president Marcelo Teixeira confirmed ongoing discussions regarding a contract renewal but acknowledged that financial constraints may necessitate a parting of ways at the end of the year. “Santos has a limit,” he stated to Globo. “Neymar’s project is the 2026 World Cup. If we find common ground, his continuity will be confirmed.”

The prospect of the World Cup remains central to Neymar’s career considerations. Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has not included him in the squad since assuming his role in mid-2025, citing concerns over the forward’s fitness and intensity. Ancelotti suggested that Neymar may be better suited for a more central role, rather than as a winger, given the defensive demands placed on wingers in modern football.

Currently, Neymar’s focus must be on aiding Santos in avoiding relegation—an increasingly desperate task with just six matches remaining. Their next challenge looms against league leaders Palmeiras, where the team will need a positive result to maintain their slim hopes of survival. If selected, Neymar is expected to lead by example and reignite the spark that once made him Brazil’s talisman.

Off the pitch, the veteran forward faces a crucial decision regarding his future. His contract with Santos expires on December 7, and although both parties have expressed a desire for an extension, the club’s financial realities and Neymar’s aspirations for a final World Cup campaign may prove difficult to align.

Additionally, reports from the United States indicate that Inter Miami is closely monitoring the situation, eager to reunite Neymar with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. A move could come to fruition if Santos is relegated, with ESPN Brazil suggesting that the 33-year-old would depart immediately should the club fail to remain in the top flight.