Brazil

Neymar causes a ‘royal’ stir

Still recovering from injury, the Brazilian star was absent from his boyhood club Santos’ league debut.

Still recovering from injury, the Brazilian star was absent from his boyhood club Santos’ league debut.

Neymar is once again making headlines in Brazil – and once again, it’s for reasons off the pitch. While the injured forward continues his recovery, he was recently seen attending a King’s League match, drawing fresh criticism after missing Santos’ season opener.

Neymar missing for Brazil

The former PSG and Al Hilal star hasn’t played in nearly a month and was absent for Santos’ Brasileirão debut against Vasco da Gama, a game the club lost 2–1. He also missed Brazil’s recent international break in March, which ended with the sacking of coach Dorival Júnior following a heavy 4–1 defeat to Argentina.

Neymar had been expected to appear in the stands at Estádio São Januário to support Santos during their opening fixture. Instead, he was reportedly focused on rehab – but the very next day, he was spotted attending a King’s League match involving his team, Furia FC, against Real Elite. Neymar is one of the club’s co-presidents in the popular 7-a-side tournament.

Neymar almost took a King’s penalty

During the match, Neymar came close to taking a penalty himself – a move allowed for team presidents in the King’s League. But he ultimately chose to step aside, allowing his friend and fellow president Cris Guedes to take the shot. Guedes chipped the ball with flair and scored a stylish goal.

Neymar watched the game from the bench alongside Brazilian influencers Mítico, Igão, and Negrete. Representing the opposing team, Real Elite, was singer Ludmilla, who took part in the penalty shootout but missed her attempt.

Furia FC won the match 4–2, adding a celebratory moment to Neymar’s week – even as questions continue to swirl around his commitment to Santos and his road to full recovery.

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