Neymar Shocked as Santos Teammates Ignore His Instructions

Neymar experienced a moment of utter disbelief during Santos’ 3-2 loss to Flamengo, highlighting the ongoing turmoil at the Brazilian club. The scene at the Maracana Stadium on November 10, 2025, became emblematic of the disconnect that has plagued Santos’ season, as the veteran superstar’s tactical instructions were blatantly ignored by his teammates.

Neymar’s Frustration Boils Over in Santos Defeat

Neymar, returning to his boyhood club with hopes of inspiring a turnaround, found little support from those around him during the crucial Serie A clash. With Santos trailing 2-0 in the 66th minute, the 33-year-old forward urged his teammates to abandon their ineffective long-ball strategy in favor of a composed, short-passing build-up. Taking matters into his own hands, Neymar even dropped deep to take a goal kick, attempting to orchestrate play from the back.

Yet, mere moments later, center-back Luan Peres disregarded Neymar’s plea, launching another hopeful ball upfield that was promptly intercepted by Flamengo. The cameras caught Neymar frozen, arms raised in exasperation and shaking his head—an image that quickly went viral and laid bare the discord within the squad.

Disconnect Between Neymar and Santos Squad

The incident underscores the growing rift between Neymar and his teammates, as well as the wider issues stifling Santos’ season. For a player whose career has flourished through possession-based, creative football at clubs like Barcelona and PSG, the lack of tactical cohesion at Vila Belmiro has been stark since his return from Al-Hilal in January.

This visible breakdown in communication reflects a team struggling for identity and direction. If you want to stay up to date with developments from Brazil and beyond, visit our homepage for more news.

Neymar’s Reaction After Substitution Adds to Drama

Neymar’s night worsened when head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda substituted him in the 85th minute, with Santos trailing 3-0. Visibly frustrated, Neymar questioned the decision, mouthing, “Are you going to take me out?” before leaving the pitch and heading straight to the dressing room, refusing to wait for the final whistle.

Though Santos managed to score two late consolation goals, the defeat left them mired in the relegation zone with only six matches remaining. The club now sits two points from safety, clinging to hopes of avoiding a historic drop into Serie B.

Neymar’s Struggles Mirror Santos’ Woes

After his much-celebrated return in January, Neymar has registered just three goals and six assists in 15 appearances, hampered by recurring injuries and inconsistent performances. The star’s personal frustrations have mirrored the broader malaise afflicting Santos, as the club finds itself drifting perilously close to relegation.

Club president Marcelo Teixeira has acknowledged ongoing contract talks but cautioned that financial constraints could force Neymar’s departure at season’s end. “Santos has a limit,” Teixeira told Globo. “Neymar’s project is the 2026 World Cup. If we find common ground, his continuity will be confirmed.”

World Cup Dreams in Jeopardy?

Neymar’s current predicament may have far-reaching consequences for his international ambitions. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, who took charge in mid-2025, has yet to select Neymar, citing his lack of fitness and intensity. Ancelotti has suggested Neymar’s future lies in a more central role rather than as a winger, given the defensive demands of modern football.

With the World Cup central to Neymar’s career goals, the forward must quickly rediscover his best form and mend fences within the Santos camp if he hopes to remain in contention for Brazil’s 2026 squad.

What’s Next for Neymar and Santos?

Facing league leaders Palmeiras next, Santos desperately need a positive result to keep their hopes of survival alive. Neymar, if selected, will be expected to lead by example and inspire the team with the creativity and fight that once made him a national icon.

Off the pitch, the veteran faces a critical decision. His contract expires on December 7, and though both parties have expressed a willingness to negotiate, the club’s financial limitations and Neymar’s World Cup aspirations may be impossible to reconcile.

Inter Miami: A Possible Escape Route?

Amid uncertainty over his future, speculation is mounting that Inter Miami could offer Neymar an escape route, reuniting him with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in MLS. Reports suggest that if Santos are relegated, a move could happen quickly, with ESPN Brazil indicating Neymar would exit immediately in such a scenario.

Opinion: Neymar’s Leadership Tested Amid Chaos

The recent events at Santos are a stark test of Neymar’s leadership and adaptability. While his frustrations are understandable given the lack of tactical unity, it’s also a reminder that successful teams require both star power and collective discipline. If Neymar and Santos are to avoid relegation and keep their dreams alive, both sides must bridge the divide—quickly.