Neymar apologises after training ground clash with Santos teammate Robinho Jr.
- Neymar admits he “overreacted” during incident with Robinho Junior
- Santos launched investigation after reported altercation in training
- Both players say issue has been resolved following apologies
Neymar has apologised following a training ground altercation with Robinho Junior, insisting the matter has now been resolved.
The incident occurred during a Santos training session, where Robinho Jr. reported the veteran forward for alleged physical aggression after being dribbled past. The club subsequently opened an investigation into the matter.
Speaking after scoring in a 1-1 draw against Deportivo Recoleta, Neymar acknowledged his reaction was excessive.
“I did overreact,” he said. “It could have been different, but I lost my head. I’ve already apologised to him and his family, and again in front of the whole group.”
Robinho Jr., 18, confirmed the confrontation involved a slap but said he has accepted Neymar’s apology and considers the issue closed.
“He realised straight away he had gone too far and apologised several times,” Robinho Jr. said. “I accept his apology. We’ve already talked and everything is sorted.”
The young forward, son of former Brazil international Robinho, also dismissed suggestions the dispute was linked to any desire to leave the club.
Santos head coach Cuca criticised the incident, stressing such behaviour should not be normalised.
“It wasn’t right and it could have been avoided,” Cuca said. “Everyone loses in a situation like this. The biggest loser is Santos.”
Neymar suggested the situation had been amplified due to his high profile, adding that such clashes can occur in football but are often misinterpreted.
Santos, meanwhile, are enduring a difficult run of form, having failed to win in their last seven matches across all competitions.