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ESPN released a video after Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Argentina asking a group of fans if they missed Neymar this tournament, the general consensus was a resounding no.
The Brazil fans in Rio don't seem to be missing Neymar much. pic.twitter.com/pbWF9TLS7R
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 3, 2019
In the video, the fans yell “Neymar out” while listing all the players that have performed well for Brazil in the Copa America, including Coutinho, Gabriel Jesus, Everton, and Allison.
Many seem to believe that Neymar’s style of play actually hurts the team, as his tendency to demand the ball at his feet kills the teams rhythm. While there is some truth to this, Neymar is also a playmaker who knows how to set his teammates with excellent opportunities to score. It comes down to whether Neymar’s individual performances come at the expense of his team.
Regardless, Neymar’s lack of international success has vilified him among Brazilian supporters, who believe that his talent warrants better results than he has achieved. In a poll done by ESPN in February, Neymar didn’t even crack the top 10 Brazilian players since Pele, finishing in 11th, and having more negative votes than positive ones.
Who’s the best Brazilian player since Pelé?
Certainly not Neymar, at least according to ESPN Brasil fans pic.twitter.com/47R9yYiDsM
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) February 17, 2019
Unfortunately for Neymar, Brazil’s success in this tournament will only further the hate of him among Brazilians, as Neymar has yet to win the Copa America in his career, and this win will come with a large asterisk next to it.
Neymar moved to PSG to be in the spotlight, but it appears as though his own countrymen are attempting to push him out of it.
