Santos Boss Backs Neymar After Sub-Par Showing

Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda has publicly backed Neymar to rediscover his top form, following a wave of criticism directed at the forward’s recent performance in Brazil.

Neymar played the entire match as Santos suffered a 2-1 defeat to Serie B side Novorizontino on Sunday, a result that saw them knocked out of the Campeonato Paulista at the quarter-final stage.

In only his second game since undergoing minor left knee surgery on 22nd December, the Brazilian international struggled in attack and was also responsible for a defensive error that led to Novorizontino’s opening goal.

Despite the setback, Vojvoda chose to highlight the positives from Neymar’s latest appearance.

“Neymar is in excellent physical condition; he completes all the training sessions,” the coach stated. “He played the full 90 minutes for the first time this year. I have immense confidence in him. His game will naturally improve and develop with each match. It’s my responsibility to ensure that confidence is maintained. I have a great deal of faith in him and I trust every player in the squad.”