Despite Santos' 2-0 victory over Remo on Friday in the league, Neymar Jr. once again found himself at the center of attention. While he delivered a convincing performance, the Brazilian forward attracted more attention for a controversial outburst directed at referee Savio Pereira Sampaio.

Engaged in a race against time to regain his place in the national team for the 2026 World Cup, the Santos player delivered an impressive performance on the pitch. Providing the assist for the opening goal and involved in the second, the former PSG player significantly contributed to his team's victory.

But the end of the match was more turbulent. Involved in an altercation with Diego Hernandez after a controversial free kick, Neymar received a yellow card for his reaction, deemed excessive. This sanction has serious consequences, as it will rule him out of the upcoming clash against Flamengo.

Visibly upset after the match, the Brazilian didn't mince words in his interview with Globo. Denouncing unfair refereeing, he strongly criticized the referee's attitude, accusing him of wanting to "be the star of the match" and of disrespecting the players.

However, it was primarily an expression used by Neymar that sparked the controversy. By stating that the referee "woke up like Chico," the striker provoked a wave of criticism. This phrase, of Portuguese origin, is perceived as pejorative and associated with misogynistic connotations, which quickly ignited social media and the Brazilian media.

A new controversy for Neymar, whose sporting performances are once again overshadowed by his media appearances.