Veteran Brazilian football figure Emerson Leão has delivered a sharp critique of superstar Neymar, asserting the 33-year-old is “past his prime” and no longer a role model despite his return to Brazilian club Santos. Leão, a former Santos coach and World Cup-winning goalkeeper for Brazil, stated that Neymar “serves as an example to no one.”
Leão, who led Santos to the Brasileirão title in 2002, expressed concern about Neymar’s current form and physical condition. “I don’t see Neymar solving our problems,” Leão told CNN. He added that the forward “demands the bursts he used to have and no longer does, because he’s not prepared.”
This physical disconnect, Leão argued, leads to recurring injuries. Neymar is currently recovering from his third muscle injury this year. “In his mind, when he starts a play, he knows what he’s going to do, but he can’t execute it,” Leão said.
Leão emphasized a lack of physical consistency in Neymar’s game. “He doesn’t have the same muscular reaction he had. He doesn’t have training consistency. He’s not the same athlete. It’s useless,” the veteran coach concluded.
Neymar’s return to Brazilian football, particularly to his former club Santos, generated considerable excitement among fans. However, Leão believes the international player has contributed little on the field since his comeback.
Leão recalled offering advice to Neymar early in his career. “Look, boy, we’re going to need you in the World Cup. Take care of yourself,” Leão recounted telling the young player. He noted that taking care of himself is “the only thing he doesn’t do.”
This season, Neymar has recorded six goals and three assists across 21 appearances for Santos.