Neymar alleges fan called him a ‘mercenary' in heated exchange after Santos defeat

New York Times

25-07-2025

Neymar has alleged that a fan called him a mercenary and spoke about his family and friends after Santos' 2-1 home defeat by Internacional on Wednesday.
Late into the second half with Santos 2-0, video footage showed Neymar pointing at and having a heated discussion with a spectator.
This came after Neymar had thought he had scored and wheeled off in celebration, only to find that officials had decided that the ball did not cross the line. The defeat left Santos in the Serie A relegation zone.
After the full-time whistle, the 33-year-old went over to the stands to talk to a fan, with the pair engaging in a conversation that had to be ended by a steward and Santos substitute goalkeeper Joao Paulo.
A post shared by Neymar Jr (@neymarjr)
In a statement posted to social media, Neymar said: 'In the heat of emotion, it's hard to control your feelings when you've been unfairly offended and I'll never argue with a fan when he's demanding me on the pitch. He has the right to say whether I've played badly or not, and he has the right to boo.
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'What he can't do is offend me, the way he offended me. (Unfortunately, at the time I only heard him talking, the game was stopped). Saying that I'm a mercenary with my father, talking about my family/friends. I'm sorry but it's hard to control.
'I came to Santos to try and help the club in the best way possible, on and off the pitch. And the day the fans think I can't help anymore or that I'm damaging the club in any way, I'll be the first to pick up my things and leave.
'Santos football club is one of my greatest passions and as long as I have the strength, I will do my best for this club. I will run, shout, and even fight if possible to get Santos where it deserves to be.'
Neymar rejoined Santos in January after leaving Al Hilal, and the Brazilian extended his contract with his boyhood club in June.
Since making the move, Neymar has made 15 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and providing three assists.
Santos have only won seven of the games in which he has played. His side are 17th in the division, in the relegation zone on goal difference.