Neymar scores brace on return but finds himself in fresh controversy

Neymar Junior shook off the disappointment of Brazil's bitter World Cup exit with a return to form in club football. The star forward delivered a strong performance, scoring twice to rescue Santos from defeat against Chapecoense in the Brazilian Série A. However, his return was quickly overshadowed by fresh controversy.

Despite his brace, Santos could only manage a 2-2 draw away at Chapecoense. Neymar led the attack for the full 90 minutes at the Estádio Urbano Caldeira on Saturday night, breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute with a brilliant finish.

But the second half saw the match turn. Chapecoense equalised in the 51st minute, and Santos fell behind in the 62nd minute through an own goal from João Ananias. Just when defeat seemed certain, Neymar stepped up as the saviour, converting a late penalty for his second goal to secure a 2-2 draw.

Neymar was the standout player throughout the match. He received a 9.4 rating in the SofaScore evaluation, taking nine shots, five of which were on target. His expected goals (xG) stood at 1.20.

Despite his on-field heroics, controversy followed the Brazilian superstar. Reports emerged of a dressing-room dispute with teammates, and Neymar was also seen leaving training early without informing anyone, sparking fresh debate.

Santos had a training session on Sunday, the day after the Chapecoense match. Neymar was present at the Pelé Training Centre, took photos and had coffee, but left before the first-team session began. Brazilian media claimed Neymar left without permission.

This came just after another reported controversy in the dressing room. According to O Globo, Neymar had used disrespectful language while criticising midfielder Gabriel Bontempo and defender João Ananias. Neymar reportedly taunted Bontempo, calling him a "bad player" and sarcastically remarking that he would have to play against Chapecoense next season — the club is currently bottom of the league and set for relegation. He also questioned Ananias's ability following his own goal, leading to an argument.

Brazilian media reported that club directors visited the training centre on Sunday to assess the situation following the dressing-room incident. However, Neymar spent little time there.

The 34-year-old forward denied all allegations on Instagram: "Friends, it wasn't the day we expected, but we must hold our heads high and keep working. I see news claiming I scolded young players in the dressing room! That is completely false."

This is not the first controversy surrounding Neymar's relationships with teammates at Santos. According to club sources, some of his on-field behaviour has also irritated teammates — repeatedly criticising them publicly for failed attacks or mistakes, creating pressure within the squad.