Mattos: Neymar a role model, dodges 2026 renewal talk | OneFootball

Alexandre Mattos praised Neymar this Wednesday. In a press conference held at Vila Belmiro, the football executive of Santos highlighted the importance of the 33-year-old attacking midfielder for football and society as a whole.

Amidst the praise, the director expressed his hope that the star will renew with Peixe at the end of the year, but made it clear that the decision will only be made at the end of the season.

“Neymar is one of the main active players in the world. For everything he represents, not only as an athlete, but mainly as a man. He is an example for generations. He is an example as a man, as a father, for all the good he does for society. He is an example in everything. I get quite upset when I see critics who don't know him at all, criticizing just to get a like. He is a great man. That’s why we will always want Neymar with us, I see his desire to be here,” he said.

“Neymar is more than just an athlete here, he is a son that Santos has. I am absolutely sure that he will continue to grow, will help Santos and our national team in the World Cup. He will be the protagonist he has always been. If PSG is what it is today, it’s because of Neymar. He can only do this because he is a great man. We will do everything for Neymar to always be here. There’s no need for anxiety. He is focused on getting Santos out of this uncomfortable situation. I hope he stays, he is very important to us,” he added.

Neymar Effect

In addition to his help on the field, Neymar also plays an important role behind the scenes. The star’s presence sparks the interest of other players in playing for Santos. There is also the influence of Neymar’s father, who, besides being a friend of Mattos, is contributing with sponsorships and agreements.

“Santos is led by Teixeira, he is restoring credibility. As a result, people are joining. Neymar’s presence here is a weapon we have in negotiations. Everyone says they want to play with Neymar. Neymar’s father brings credibility and adds value. I work 100% with Marcelo Teixeira, he is the one who allows it. Neymar is more than just a teammate, he helps us, he is very important. Neymar’s father is also a friend, I came to Santos also because of their presence. The Neymar family is an example to me. But Teixeira is our leader,” he concluded.

Neymar renewed with Santos in June. The contract is valid until the end of 2025. The attacking midfielder has played 20 matches, scored six goals, and provided three assists since returning to the club at the end of January.

Upcoming Santos matches

Atlético-MG vs Santos (23rd round of the Brazilian Championship) Date and time: September 14 (Sunday), at 4:00 p.m. (Brasília time) Venue: Arena MRV, in Belo Horizonte (MG)

Santos vs São Paulo (24th round of the Brazilian Championship) Date and time: September 21 (Sunday), at 8:30 p.m. (Brasília time) Venue: Vila Belmiro, in Santos (SP)

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.