Topics: Neymar, Brazil, Argentina, FIFA World Cup Qualifying
The PSG ace joked about the criticisms he has been getting recently surrounding his fitness.

Brazil are gearing up for their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Argentina, with Selecao sensation Neymar set to lead his nation against their biggest rival in what is one of the most highly-anticipated fixtures of the ongoing international break. However, one unrelated issue drew the attention of the PSG superstar, sparking a reaction from the talented attacker.

The 29-year-old, known for being a lean and agile player, has lately been criticized for packing on weight. These accusations can be traced back to an image of the former Barcelona man on a yacht during the summer in which he appears to be out of shape, which is a common trend among footballers when they go on break.

Those claims, unfortunately, continued into the current season, with the player's physique and fitness coming under heavy scrutiny in both his first game of the season – PSG's 2-0 win over Reims last weekend – and Brazil's recent victory over Chile. Neymar has now taken to social media to address these claims, stating on Instagram that his weight is as usual while joking that this misconception is simply due to him wearing a larger than normal shirt against La Roja.

Despite this, one can admit that the player is currently rusty, having only played 66 minutes for his club so far this season prior to completing the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 triumph over Chile. Regardless, the Selecao talent is guaranteed to lead his team in their showdown with Argentina as Neymar and Co. go in search of revenge for their 2021 Copa America final defeat.

Tite's men lost 1-0 to Messi and Co. in the ultimate game of the summer tournament, which was made all the more worse by the fact that the defeat occurred at the famous Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. The pair will reignite their rivalry this Sunday and while the five-time World Cup winners boast a six-point advantage over La Albiceleste and thus can afford a slip-up, expect Brazil to go all out for the win in this battle for bragging rights.