Neymar’s return to Santos took a frustrating turn on Sunday after the star forward was sent off in the 76th minute of Santos' clash against Botafogo in the Brazilian Serie A. The 32-year-old received his second yellow card for deliberately punching the ball into the net in an attempt to score from close range. The referee had no hesitation in disallowing the goal and showing him the red
Neymar, who has only recently returned from a long injury layoff, has had a limited impact this season. He has missed seven matches due to fitness issues and failed to register a goal or assist in the four he has played.
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer, had only just returned to action after a devastating ACL and meniscus injury suffered in October 2023 while on national duty. Despite featuring in Santos’ last two matches, he remains far from his best
The red card has further complicates his international ambitions for Neymar. Left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad since the Italian coach took over, Neymar's hopes of a recall now appear even slimmer. Ancelotti opted instead to bring back experienced names like Casemiro, Richarlison, and Antony for Brazil's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador on June 5 and Paraguay on June 10.
Santos woes continue after Botafogo defeat
It was a tough evening for Santos, who conceded a heartbreaking goal in stoppage time courtesy of Artur Victor Guimaraes, sealing a 1-0 win for the visitors. The result leaves Santos languishing in 18th place on the league table after 11 games, staring at a relegation battle in what is shaping up to be a difficult campaign.
