Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has reiterated his confidence in Neymar, insisting the forward will recover his best level despite criticism of his most recent performance in Brazil.
Neymar, who returned to Santos amid high expectations given his history with the club and status in Brazilian football, came under scrutiny after a below-par display in his latest appearance. Observers highlighted his limited influence on the match and questioned his fitness and sharpness following his injury-plagued recent seasons.
Speaking after the game, Vojvoda defended the player and stressed that Neymar remains central to Santos’ plans. The coach acknowledged that the forward did not reach his usual standards but framed the performance as part of a natural adaptation process as Neymar works to regain rhythm and match sharpness.
Vojvoda underlined that Neymar is still rebuilding form after a long period of physical setbacks and time away from Brazilian domestic football. He noted that the intensity and demands of the matches will help the forward progress, and said the technical staff will continue to manage his minutes and workload carefully.
The coach also pointed to Neymar’s experience and track record at club and international level as reasons for patience, arguing that players of his quality need time to adjust when returning from injury and adapting to a different competitive environment. Vojvoda indicated that internal evaluations remain positive and that the club is satisfied with Neymar’s commitment in training and his role within the squad.
While criticism has focused on missed opportunities and his reduced impact in the final third, Vojvoda chose to emphasize Neymar’s leadership and the attention he attracts from opposing defenders, which he says can create space for teammates. He added that the coaching staff is working with Neymar to refine his positioning and decision-making as he seeks to regain confidence.
Vojvoda closed by reaffirming that Santos will continue to rely on Neymar and that the club expects his performances to improve as he accumulates more minutes on the pitch. The coach maintained that short-term dips in form will not alter the long-term plan built around the forward’s presence in the squad.
