Neymar's heartbreaking action when mocked by Santos fans themselves

Neymar shocks as he is booed by Santos fans after defeat to Fluminense, raising concerns about performance, club's future, and chances of returning to Brazil's national team ahead of World Cup 2026.

Neymar's return in Santos colors is gradually turning into a nightmare, as the Brazilian superstar faces fierce criticism from his own fans after the 2-3 loss to Fluminense.

The match at Vila Belmiro stadium ended in a tense atmosphere. Despite once being the club's icon, Neymar was continuously booed when the final whistle blew. The fans' disappointment peaked after the team's late collapse.

Unable to hide his frustration, the 34-year-old forward left the field with both hands covering his ears to avoid negative sounds from the stands. Shortly after, he posted an emotional message on social media: “Now I have to explain even… why I scratch my ear? People are crossing the line. It's sad to endure this. No one can accept it.”

Declining performance, Santos sinks deeper into crisis

Although Neymar greatly contributed to Santos avoiding relegation last season, the current situation is completely opposite. After 9 appearances, he scored 4 goals and provided 3 assists, but could not salvage the team's poor form.

Santos has won only 3 out of 12 matches in the national league, currently ranking 15th and just 1 point above the relegation zone—a position held by their arch-rival Corinthians. Across all competitions, the team has won only 2 of their last 10 matches, showing serious instability.

A bitter defeat and the turning point named Neymar

Against Fluminense, Santos twice took the lead thanks to goals from Gabigol and Alvaro Barreal. However, they could not maintain the advantage.

The turning point came late in the match when Neymar missed a golden opportunity to “finish” the opponent. Immediately after, John Kennedy scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute, sealing the victory for the visitors.

Not only that, a technical move by Neymar deemed “excessive” during added time further angered fans, as the team was seeking an equalizer.

Risk affecting World Cup 2026

Neymar's current situation is not limited to the club level but also raises big questions about his future with Brazil's national team. Coach Carlo Ancelotti still keeps open the possibility of calling him up for FIFA World Cup 2026, but under the condition that the forward must maintain his physical condition and performance.

Since the serious injury in the match against Uruguay in October 2023, Neymar has not once returned to wear the Selecao jersey. Although still the greatest scorer in Brazil's national team history, his path back is becoming more obscure than ever.

If he does not quickly resolve the conflict with fans and rediscover his killer instinct, Neymar's illustrious career could end in a bitterly disappointing way.