From being booed by Brazil fans to guiding his home nation to an accolade they have never previously achieved, Neymar endured a roller-coaster Rio Olympics which ended in jubilation for the Barca ace and the hosts.
Supporters chanted Marta’s name at the former Santos star’s every touch, but on Saturday the 24-year-old guided the South American giants to their very first Olympic gold medal by beating Germany on penalties.
The Brazil captain scored a stunning free-kick goal before netting the decisive spot kick, breaking down in tears after it all ended. However, shortly after this historic moment, Neymar dropped a bombshell: he will no longer be captain.
The Blaugrana sensation admitted (as per Lance!) that he will hand over the skipper’s armband which he inherited from Thiago Silva after the 2014 World Cup. He said:
“Today I stop being a captain. I will send a message to [senior coach] Tite that from now he can look for another captain. Today I have become a champion and I give up the captain’s armband. It was something I received and honoured with affection.”
Tite has not even been in charge for one official game, but the Selecao boss already faces the daunting task of naming a new captain.
The Brazil boss has to make a decision – and quick – as they face a crucial game against Ecuador in the beginning of September.
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