Reports of party dent Neymar’s improving image

RIO DE JANEIRO: Rumours of a giant year-end party organised by Neymar in Brazil in the midst of the pandemic have revived his image as an eternal spoiled child.

The Paris Saint-Germain striker’s entourage vigorously denies reports in Brazilian media, but the silence of the player, normally active on social media, speaks for itself.

When a young woman filed a complaint against him for rape last year - a case that was eventually dropped - the Brazilian football star did not hesitate to reveal intimate exchanges of messages with his accuser.

This time, he is keeping quiet. So too are his main sponsors Puma, who wrenched Neymar away from Nike in September. Contacted by AFP, the German sports-goods manufacturer refused to comment.

The refusal to deny the party is taking place has brought a reaction from Brazilian media.

“It would be much simpler if Neymar went on social networks and said he had nothing to do with it. LeBron James, Lewis Hamilton, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo don’t throw any parties,” said Galvao Bueno of TV Globo, on Monday evening.

Juca Kfouri, another veteran sports journalist, went further, speaking of “criminal irresponsibility” in a podcast from the UOL website.

“Not only is there nothing in his head, but he is irresponsible, this is a very bad example for Brazil,” said Kfouri, recalling that the 28-year-old striker has often appeared alongside far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who has repeatedly downplayed the importance of the virus.

Brazilian media has filled in the silence with of the supposed party.

Neymar reportedly plans a seven-day, non-stop rave for 500 guests, has bought a disused hangar to hide VIP helicopters and private jets.

- ‘He has not committed a crime’ -

After a series of seasons marred by injuries, failures in big matches and complaints about his diving when tackled, Neymar helped Paris Saint-Germain reach their first Champions League final.

His image received another lift when he and Kylian Mbappe led the Paris Saint-Germain players off the field after a match official aimed a racist remark at a coach of opposing Basaksehir three weeks ago during a Champions League match.