Yesterday, 08:22 AM
Neymar's legacy questioned after harsh criticismFormer Brazil coach and 1970 World Cup winner Emerson Leao openly criticised Neymar's attitude, fitness and leadership. In an interview with CNN Esportes, Leao branded the Santos forward ot an example for anyone and insisted he is no longer the player he once was. His comments have reignited long-standing debates about Neymar's professionalism and commitment to the national former goalkeeper explained that his criticism was not just about Neymar's football, but also his behaviour off the pitch. He claimed that the 33-year-old asn't looked after himself and no longer influences games the way he used to. Leao also rejected the idea that Neymar can still be the solution for Brazil, adding that he does not believe the forward will make an impact at the 2026 World went further, saying the biggest issue was not Neymar's skill, but his physical decline. According to him, the Brazilian thinks faster than his body can now respond: "In his head, when he's about to start a play, he knows what he's going to do, but he can't do it anymore. He can't do it anymore. He no longer has the same muscular reaction. The training sequence is gone. He's not the same athlete. It's no use.'He's not the same athlete' - Emerson Leao Before delivering his harshest comments, the former goalkeeper explained he always believed Neymar had the potential to become a national hero. He recalled advising the forward early in his career to take care of himself because Brazil would need him. However, he claims Neymar ignored that advice and is now paying the price physically and mentally."I have few words for Neymar https://www.mexicosoccerstore.com/collec...pez-jersey, " he said. "I think one thing depends on the other: the man outside and the man inside. And so, he doesn't serve as an example for anyone."He added: "He hasn't stopped playing football. It's just that he's being asked to perform the same kind of sprints he used to have and no longer has because he's unprepared. So what happens? Injuries and problems happen."He started out as a wonderful player. I remember one day when I played against Santos, he was leaving, and I walked past him and said: 'Look, kid, we're going to need you at the World Cup. Take care of yourself.' That's the only thing he doesn't do."Leao admitted his criticism comes with disappointment rather than anger, saying Brazil issed a great opportunity to build around Neymar. Despite that, he doesn't believe the forward should face hatred but insists fans must accept the reality that he is no longer the same player who dazzled in Neymar return to Brazil's plans?The ex-Barcelona and PSG star's future with the national team remains uncertain. He has not played for Brazil since October 2023 against Uruguay in World Cup qualifying. Although he has returned to Santos, injuries have limited him to just 21 appearances this season, with six goals and three assists. His latest setback, a rectus femoris muscle injury has sidelined him since Leao's criticism, current Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has not ruled Neymar out completely. The Italian believes that hen he's fit, the forward can still play at the highest level for both club and country. However, he also made it clear that Neymar must first prove his fitness and consistency with Santos before being considered 's contract with Santos expires in December 2025, and he is expected to become a free agent after that. His agent, Pini Zahavi, maintains strong ties with clubs like Napoli and Inter, keeping the door open for a potential return to Europe. But any move and a possible return to the national team depends entirely on his ability to stay next for Neymar?The 33-year-old's immediate goal is returning from injury, with expectations that he could be back by November. With his Santos contract entering its final year Julin Quiones Jersey, he faces a crucial period that could decide his long-term future in football. A strong finish to the season would strengthen his chances of securing a European move and earning back his spot in the Brazil out on international football for two years has clearly affected Neymar's legacy, especially for a player once considered the heir to Pele. As Brazil prepare for the 2026 World Cup across the USA, Mexico and Canada, competition for attacking roles is fierce. Young stars like Endrick, Rodrygo and Gabriel Martinelli are all pushing for permanent roles in the , Neymar remains motivated by one final chance to shine on the world stage. If he can regain fitness and form, Ancelotti may yet give him an opportunity. But with critics like Leao saying his time is up, Neymar must now prove to fans, coaches and himself that he can still make a difference.