During the latest episode of Convocação CNN, analyst Cris Schwambach offered a rigorous evaluation of Neymar’s current situation at Santos. She emphasized a common misconception held by Neymar himself: that the media is against him. In reality, fans are eager to see him return to full fitness and perform at his best.
“We want Neymar to manage his workload and come back in prime condition, playing like the superstar we’ve cheered for in the national team and saw shine at PSG and Barcelona,” Schwambach remarked.
Concerns Over Neymar’s Inconsistency
Schwambach highlighted a worrying trend in Neymar’s recent performances. She pointed out that his pattern of playing a few matches, then managing his minutes, and often dealing with minor muscle injuries is detrimental to the team’s planning. This inconsistency frustrates fans who yearn to see his talent on the field.
Santos Needs Stability, Not Dependence
The commentator praised Coach Cuca for prioritizing the team’s defense and not solely relying on Neymar’s return. “Santos cannot compete for titles right now; they need to focus on avoiding relegation,” she stressed, noting that the club lacks the squad depth needed for championship contention.
Neymar Should Not Hijack Santos’ Season
Schwambach’s most compelling point was her assertion that “Neymar should not hijack Santos’ season as he did last year.” She referred to Neymar’s late return during the previous season when his impact came only in the closing matches, as the team struggled with relegation fears. “Having him as a savior in the final rounds does not solve the fundamental issues,” she added.
For the upcoming season, it is essential to view Neymar as an added asset to the squad rather than the sole solution to the team’s challenges. “Neymar must be a complement in the roster; you can count on him, but you cannot depend solely on him,” Schwambach concluded. This perspective aligns with Cuca’s strategy as Santos navigates the crucial months ahead.
