Neymar Jr. was seen leaving the field in tears following Santos FC’s devastating 6-0 loss to Vasco Da Gama in the Brazilian Serie A. This defeat marks what is being described as the most embarrassing failure of his career.
It was the first time Santos FC, eight-time Brazilian champions, had conceded six goals in a single Serie A match. Despite Neymar Jr.’s presence, the team currently sits precariously in the relegation zone, just two points clear. In the aftermath of the humiliating loss, coach Cleber Xavier was fired by the club within hours.
Vasco Da Gama midfielder Philippe Coutinho, formerly of Liverpool and Aston Villa, was instrumental, scoring two goals. His contribution helped secure Vasco Da Gama’s first victory in six matches and their largest win in 17 years.
Neymar Jr.’s performance was a major disappointment for the entire team, leading to protests from fans demanding solutions for the club. Neymar Jr. himself expressed his dismay to journalists at the end of the match, stating, “I have never seen this before in my life. This unfortunately I can’t help anything. I think all today should go home and sleeping thinking about what happened today, and what do they want to do next.”
The 33-year-old Neymar Jr., once the most expensive player in football history after his EUR 222 million transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, recently returned to Santos FC. He rejoined the club after his contract with Al Hilal was terminated due to frequent injuries. Since returning mid-season, Neymar has made 12 appearances, contributing 6 assists.
