Tensions rise at Santos as Neymar insults teammates after Chapecoense draw

Neymar caused tension in the Santos dressing room following the team's 2-2 draw with Chapecoense in the league on Saturday.

According to Brazilian outlet ge.globo, Neymar used inappropriate language with some teammates, upsetting players, coaching staff, and club management. The report stated that Neymar called teammate Gabriel Pontempo "despicable" and mocked him when Pontempo himself mentioned the possibility of joining Chapecoense, who are bottom of the league, next season.

The reports added that Neymar directed harsh words at teammate Joao Ananias, questioning his defensive and technical abilities after Ananias scored an own goal in the 62nd minute, despite Neymar having scored twice in the match.

Strained relations and club investigation

The source also indicated that this incident has further strained Neymar's relationship with his teammates, with the club noting that tensions have existed for some time.

Pontempo stated that what happened was a "general reprimand" at halftime without direct insults from Neymar, while Ananias denied the incident but acknowledged there was a general dressing-room reprimand.

The Santos board plans to launch an investigation into the incident, especially as this is not the first time Neymar has been excessively demanding with younger teammates.

Impact on Neymar's image among players

Media reports said Neymar's recent behavior has damaged his image among younger players, who once saw him as a role model but have been disappointed by his actions.

Globo also reported another incident that negatively affected Neymar's relationship with teammates, when he attended a poker tournament on the day Santos played Venezuela's UCV in the Copa Sudamericana.