Neymar apologises after slapping Robinho Jr in training

Brazilian football star Neymar Jr has publicly apologized for his actions during a training session at Santos FC, where he slapped his teenage teammate Robinho Jr. The incident, which reportedly occurred after the younger player dribbled past Neymar, has been described by Robinho Jr as a "violent slap to the face," prompting an internal investigation by the club.

Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, did not shy away from responsibility, admitting he "overreacted" and "lost his head." In a statement, he offered a direct apology, stating, "If you want an apology in front of the media, here it is. I did overreact in the way I reacted. It could have been different, but I ended up losing my head. Everyone makes mistakes. It was my mistake, his mistake, but I made the bigger mistake."

“

If you want an apology in front of the media, here it is. I did overreact in the way I reacted. It could have been different, but I ended up losing my head. Everyone makes mistakes. It was my mistake, his mistake, but I made the bigger mistake.

Robinho Jr, son of the former Brazil international of the same name, confirmed that Neymar apologized immediately after the incident and has repeated the apology multiple times. Despite the altercation, Robinho Jr expressed that he is fine and holds no ill will towards Neymar, whom he considers an idol. He noted that disagreements are part of football and likened the situation to arguments between friends or brothers.

The matter was reportedly resolved quickly by Santos FC, with both players expected to remain with the squad without further disciplinary action. The pair appeared to have moved past the incident, as evidenced by Neymar embracing Robinho Jr after scoring in a recent match. This resolution, as reported by The Punch, highlights a common occurrence in the intense environment of professional sports, where conflicts can arise but are often quickly mended between teammates.

“

It was a situation that upset me because he has been my idol since I was a child. But he realised straight away that he had gone too far. We’ve already talked about it. I’m fine, I like him a lot, and it’s all sorted.