Neymar has responded to the backlash regarding his recent altercation with Santos teammate Robinho Junior, offering an apology for his behavior.
The experienced forward netted a goal in Tuesday’s 1-1 match against Deportivo Recoleta, celebrating by embracing Robinho Jr., who was seated on the bench.
“If Robinho Jr.’s people are looking for an apology to the media, here it is,” Neymar stated to reporters post-match.
“I had already expressed my regrets to him [Robinho Jr.] and his family. I admit I overreacted; my response could have been handled differently, but I lost my temper.”
“Everyone makes mistakes; it’s my fault, and I’m responsible for the larger part of it. We came together again on Monday, I apologized in front of the entire team, addressed everyone, and he apologized too. We thought everything was settled.”
Santos has initiated an investigation after Robinho Jr. accused Neymar of assault during a training session when the teenager dribbled past the veteran.
Robinho Jr., the son of former Real Madrid and Manchester City forward Robinho, mentioned on Tuesday that he reported the incident in a “moment of intense anger” alongside his agents.
He alleged that Neymar “threw offensive insults,” tripped him, and “delivered a violent slap to the face.”
“That’s what happened [a slap in the face],” Robinho Jr. confirmed.
“He immediately recognized that he had crossed a line, apologized several times, and I’ve already accepted his apology.”
Robinho Jr., 18, dismissed claims that he made this stance because he wishes to leave Santos.
“It was a situation that upset me because Neymar has been my idol since childhood,” he expressed.
“There’s a lot of misinformation circulating, and it’s unfortunate that it escalated to this extent. However, I’m fine, I have great respect for him, and we’ve resolved things.”
“My future is at Santos, which is why I renewed my contract. I’m eager to contribute to this club; I believe I’ve barely scratched the surface of what Robinho Jr. can achieve, both on and off the field.”
Neymar feels the situation was exaggerated due to his public profile.
“Of course,” he stated. “Especially here in Brazil, where my name is constantly in the spotlight.”
“Anyone involved in football knows these things happen — altercations, fights, slaps, and so forth. It’s part of the game. At times, people misinterpret these incidents, leading to an exaggerated narrative that spirals out of control.”
– Santos launches investigation into alleged assault by Neymar on Robinho Jr.
– Robinho Jr. seeks public apology from Neymar regarding alleged assault – sources
– Casemiro: ‘Neymar doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone’
Santos coach Cuca expressed regret over the incident between the players due to the negative attention it has attracted for the club.
“What happened wasn’t right and could have been avoided, even though such things can occur,” Cuca remarked on Tuesday.
“We can’t consider it a normal occurrence in football because it’s not. Who’s at fault? No one. In such situations, everyone loses.
“The primary victim is Santos, whose reputation is suffering. Fans want to see the team excel, score goals, and not be distracted by negative headlines.”
Santos has not secured a win in their last seven matches across all competitions.