Neymar sees red for silly handball in potentially last match for Santos

 

Neymar sees red for silly handball in potentially last match for Santos Neymar Jr. was sent off in a controversial moment during Santos’ 1-0 defeat to Botafogo in Brazil’s Série A, in what might have been his last appearance for the club. The match, held at Vila Belmiro, saw Neymar receive a red card in the 76th minute after deliberately using his hand to score, echoing Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal. Already booked earlier, Neymar’s blatant handball led to a second yellow card, reducing Santos to ten players. The goal was disallowed, and Botafogo seized the opportunity, with Artur scoring the decisive goal in the 86th minute. Neymar, visibly frustrated, later issued an apology on social media, stating, “I made a mistake, forgive me! Today, if I hadn’t been sent off, I’m sure we would have gotten the three points.” The red card, his 15th career dismissal, means he will miss Santos’ next match against Fortaleza. With his contract set to expire on June 30 and the Brasileirão pausing for the FIFA Club World Cup, speculation surrounds Neymar’s future. No confirmation of a contract renewal has been announced, raising questions about whether this marks the end of his second stint with Santos, where he first rose to fame. Santos, struggling in the relegation zone with only 8 points after 11 rounds, faced another setback with the loss. The match highlighted their challenges this season, as they failed to capitalize on home advantage. Neymar’s exit, both from the game and potentially the club, leaves fans reflecting on his impact and wondering if the 33-year-old star will return to Santos or seek new horizons.

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