Neymar just can’t seem to catch a break — and this time, it’s not even about what he did on the pitch.
The controversy machine fired up again after Santos fell 2-3 to Fluminense in a Brazilian Serie A clash on Sunday — with the real flashpoint coming after the final whistle.
Gesture Sparks Backlash
As Neymar made his way off the pitch, TV cameras caught him placing his fingers in his ears while walking past a section of Santos’ most vocal supporters.
Chegou o dia que eu tenho que explicar uma COÇADA DE ORELHA!
Gente, sinceramente vocês estão pegando pesado demais e ultrapassando os limites … é triste demais ter que conviver com isso!
Não tem ser humano que aguente 🤦🏽♂️ pic.twitter.com/QSUeLd8l1Z— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) April 19, 2026
The clip spread
rapidly online, and so did the outrage.
Given the club has managed just one win in its last five matches, tensions are already running high among frustrated fans, to whom the gesture looked like a deliberate attempt to shut out criticism.
Neymar Claps Back
The Brazilian star responded swiftly and bluntly on social media.
“The day has arrived when I have to explain an ear scratch! Folks, honestly, you’re going way too hard and crossing the line… It’s just too sad to have to put up with this,” he wrote.
“No human being can take it.”
Despite Santos’ poor run of form, Neymar has delivered flashes of quality since his return in 2025 — registering 11 goals and four assists since his comeback.
However, injuries have limited him to just five appearances this season.
World Cup Hopes Hanging
There’s also a bigger picture looming: Neymar’s international future.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear the door to the 2026 FIFA World Cup isn’t closed, but it’s far from guaranteed.
“Neymar is capable of coming back… I will only call up players who are physically ready,” Ancelotti said.
Having not featured for Brazil since his injury against Uruguay in October 2023, Neymar now faces a critical stretch.
Form, fitness, and focus will decide whether he gets one last shot on football’s biggest stage.
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