Full Breakdown
Neymar Faces Backlash Over Poker Appearance Amid Post-World Cup Turmoil
7/26/2026, 1:25:33 PM
Neymar’s Poker Tournament Sparks Criticism
After Brazil’s 2026 World Cup exit, 34-year-old Neymar Jr. entered the Brazilian poker championship on a day Santos travelled to Venezuela for a Copa Sudamericana knockout match. While Santos secured a 4–1 first-leg victory, Neymar’s absence dominated headlines. He later posted Instagram photos from the tournament with the caption “Life is a joke.” In a video released two days later, Neymar said he had trained that morning, rested, and was “getting ready to train,” questioning whether he would be allowed to train without further criticism.
Santos Manager Cuca’s Rationale
Santos head coach Cuca explained the decision to leave Neymar out of the traveling squad, noting the club’s congested schedule of four games in ten days. He added, “Since he was sidelined for a few days and didn’t have a holiday,” emphasizing the need to preserve player freshness.
Return to Training and Contract Extension
Neymar resumed training with Santos on Friday, July 17, after a brief break following the World Cup. He is following an individualized conditioning program aimed at restoring peak fitness. Earlier, he extended his contract for six months, keeping him at the club through the end of the 2026 season.
International Retirement and Uncertain Future
Neymar retired from the Brazil national team after a 2–1 round-of-16 loss to Norway, in which he scored a late penalty. With his international career concluded before his 35th birthday, his next steps remain unclear. Options discussed include staying at Santos, moving to another club, or retiring from professional play altogether once the season ends.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Since he was sidelined for a few days and didn’t have a holiday,” — Cuca — Cuca (Santos manager)
