Khaberni - Former international goalkeeper and coach Emerson Leao, winner of the 1970 World Cup with "Selecao," unleashed a scathing attack on his compatriot Neymar, who is still the subject of widespread controversy in Brazil as the 2026 World Cup approaches, considering the Santos star a role model for no one.
On October 17, 2023, Neymar (33 years old) played his last match for his national team in a 0-2 loss against Uruguay in Montevideo, thereby missing out on the world champions squad five times due to recurring injuries. It has been almost two years since Neymar, who has played 128 international matches, last wore the yellow jersey.
As the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico approaches, the former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi club Al-Hilal star, currently injured, is still a hot topic in Brazil. While Italian Carlo Ancelotti, coach of "Selecao" last week, did not close the door on him, Leao directed harsh criticism in an interview with "ESPN" that was republished by the newspaper "As", stating foremost that "Neymar is a role model for no one".
Former Brazilian national team goalkeeper (80 international matches), 1970 World Cup champion who participated in the World Cup finals in 1974, 1978, and 1986, had the opportunity to meet Neymar during his coaching career at many Brazilian clubs.
Leao, 76, said "He started as a great player. I remember once, when I was playing against Santos, he came off (the field) and I met him and said: 'Listen son, we're going to need you at the World Cup. Take care of yourself.' And that's the only thing he didn't do...".
He added, "In his mind, when he prepares to play any game, he knows what he will do, but he is no longer able to do that. He no longer has the same muscle response. He no longer has the same training sequence. He is no longer the same athlete."
He continued, "Neymar is still a talented player, but his physical abilities are limited" and "even today, he is forced to do what he used to do, but he can no longer do it because he is not ready."
