"Last week they said I was the worst player in the world. Today I scored two goals, and that's what matters. That's football. One day you're no good or you're 'retired'; the next, people say you have to go to the World Cup."
"I'm dedicating myself and working to get in the best possible shape. This was my third game of the year and only my second full 90 minutes. I felt some cramping at the end, but that's just part of the process."
"He always wants to cause trouble and act tough. He already broke me once at PSG, and he threatened me again today. It's always the same with him."
Neymar ended his goal drought by scoring twice in Santos' 2-1 victory over Vasco da Gama in the Brasileirão. The former Barcelona and PSG star responded to mounting criticism and pressure regarding a potential World Cup return for Brazil. Neymar emphasized that football's perception shifts rapidly, noting he was criticized last week but scored two goals Thursday. He acknowledged his ongoing recovery process, having undergone surgery at the beginning of 2026 and recently returned to play. This was only his second full 90-minute match of the year. Brazil's manager has indicated Neymar would be considered for World Cup selection if fit. A heated altercation with Vasco midfielder Thiago Mendes occurred during the match, stemming from a 2020 injury incident.
Read at ESPN.com
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