“Off the Pitch Is His Problem” – Neymar’s ‘Unfair’ Critics Told to Look at His Sporting Side as Tottenham Star Makes Ronaldo-Messi Comparisons

Good Luck seems to evade Neymar. This has been the story since his departure from FC Barcelona. Following his latest injury, his 10th injury issue since 2020, the Brazilian star is expected to miss the current season. Even off the field, Neymar has received a lot of criticism. His performances in the qualifiers have left many unimpressed. In fact, during Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Venezuela, a bag of popcorn from the fans hit Neymar. However, he recently received support from an unlikely source, a Tottenham player whom he knows particularly well.

Tottenham are having the kind of luck Neymar would be yearning for. Despite losing star player Harry Kane, they sit top of the premier league table undefeated. Every 50-50 decision, VAR calls, are going in their favor.  Fans also find the style of play implemented by new coach Ange Postecoglou enjoyable. Despite their highs, a key member of the squad has found the time to extend support to the injured playmaker.

Premier League Star asks critics to focus on Neymar’s sporting qualities

Despite not reaching the career heights of Messi and Ronaldo, the Brazilian is held in big regard by many, particularly Tottenham star Emerson Royal. As per R7 Esporte during a recent interview, Royal said, “I believe that people have to look at the athlete side, at the player side of Neymar, what he does off the field is his problem“. He added “When we catch Argentina, Messi is an idol; In Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo is an idol. Then they say: “But Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi don’t give the work that Neymar does off the field“.

This is not the first time he has received criticism for his lifestyle choices. In 2021, during an interview with the YouTube channel Fui Clear???, Neymar addressed the criticism as a lack of respect. Like Emerson Royal, Neymar too had said he is to be accountable for stuff on the pitch, not off it.

Recently, another Brazilian too had leaped to the defense of Neymar. Real Madrid forward Rodrygo recently said that Neymar still remains Brazil’s main man. Despite criticism of his off-field antics, Neymar remains a big influence for many talented youngsters.

Read More: Neymar’s Terrible Injury Forces Al Hilal to Look for His Replacements in Kylian Mbappe and 2 Other Superstars

Is Neymar still Brazil’s main man?

The Brazilian superstar is struggling with injuries. He has lost his explosiveness and is no longer the force that he used to be. With players like Vinicius Junior and Gabriel Martinelli, making headlines for Real Madrid and Arsenal respectively, does it make sense to move the Brazilian Superstar on? Also, considering the fact that both Martinelli and Vinicius are pure wingers, while current Neymar is more of No 10. Fernando Diniz does have a huge decision to make, one that will cause a lot of scrutiny regardless of the choice.

Should soccer players be criticized for their lifestyle choices? Or do their choices outside the pitch affect their performance levels? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this story: Already Battling Terrible Injury, Neymar Faces Yet Another Setback, as Al Hilal Star Gets a $11 Million Blow in Transfer Market