"Some want him well and some crucified in another way" - Ex-Real Madrid star 'upset' by Brazil public's treatment of Neymar Jr

Former Real Madrid centre-back Danilo isn't happy with the treatment of Brazil's all-time top-scorer Neymar Junior by the country's fans. Neymar has 79 strikes in 128 appearances for the Selecao.

The 33-year-old hasn't turned up for his country in more than two years since injuring his left knee in a 2-0 FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying defeat in Uruguay in October 2023.

After cutting short his stint with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, Neymar returned to Santos in his native Brazil, scoring six times and assisting thrice in 23 games across competitions. While the former Barcelona man has had some controversial actions off the field, his national teammate Danilo reckons the country's fans should be treating Neymar better, telling GE (via Globo):

"I get very sad seeing our country, in a way, divided. Some want Neymar to do well, and there are those who crucified him in another way, who don't want him, don't like him. I'm sure that how he lives his life outside of football, his choices, can be debatable.

"It's everyone's business. And Neymar's even more so because of his stature. Now, on the field, I get very upset when we discuss Neymar's stature, whether he's at the level of A, B or C."

The 33-year-old made his senior Brazil debut in August 2010, scoring in a 2-0 friendly win over the USA at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Brazil boss shares thoughts on Neymar's possible return

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said that he hopes the country's star striker Neymar Junior recovers his best physical condition soon to return to the national team.

Having not played international football for two years, Neymar returned to his boyhood club Santos early this year, but his output has been well below expectations.

"Everyone wants Neymar to get back to his best physical condition," Ancelotti said. "Brazil's FA (CBF), the coach, the national team's technical staff, the players hope that Neymar can return to his best level.

"The truth is that today's football demands many things. Not only talent, but also physical condition, intensity ... hopefully Neymar will be at his best level."

Neymar last scored for the Selecao - a brace (and an assist) - in a 5-1 home win over Bolivia in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier in September 2023.

Edited by Bhargav