Despite being on vacation, Neymar Jr. is drawing attention for his reported desire to host a New Year’s Eve party in his mansion in Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, according to O Globo.
However, media outlets such as Goal report that the Paris Saint-Germain forward is denying any such event is taking place. Furthermore, Neymar states that he will be spending the day with his family and physiotherapist.
Despite the 28-year-old trying to clear up the situation that he’s not involved with such a party, it doesn’t stop the criticism coming his way. During an appearance on La Chaîne L’Equipe (via Paris Fans), French football journalist Hervé Penot criticized Neymar for having such an event during a pandemic.
“Outrageous yes, all the same. At some point, you still have to be responsible. Neymar is well aware of all this since they do tests three times a week. And there he does not realize that he cannot invite 150 people,” Penot said. “Masks? To drink, we keep them? With strong alcohol, they will remove the mask. When you are a professional player, you have to be careful.”
“Being pro is not only one hour and thirty minutes of football. You also have to know that you should not do anything even if you want to party. You have to be responsible. He must lead by example and be careful. I think it’s a child. He does not realize what he represents. It has a nice side, but you also need people around him to tell him what is being done or not.”
Brazil is currently third in the world when it comes to coronavirus cases, according to Worldometers. Meanwhile, France is fifth, so, understandably, the French sports media would be critical.
However, Neymar did state that he’s not associated with any party planned for New Year’s Eve and should have the benefit of the doubt until actual proof like video or photos says otherwise.
Want more PSG? Visit the PSG Talk Podcast Network page and subscribe to PSG Talking, The 1970, and 24th & Parc.
