Brazil suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the quarterfinal contest against Croatia at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. As soon as Brazil crashed out, there were speculations regarding the future of&nbsp;Neymar Jr - the team's superstar. While many suggested it was Neymar's last dance, the player cleared that he was not closing any doors.&nbsp;

“I am not closing any doors on the national team but I am also not guaranteeing 100 per cent that I will return,” said Neymar in a post-match conference.&nbsp;

“I need to think a bit more about this, about what is the right thing for me and for the national team," he added.&nbsp;

Before the beginning of the World Cup, Neymar said he was still undecided about his future but added that he will play the tournament like it was his last.&nbsp;

"I can't guarantee that I'll play another [World] Cup. I honestly don't know. I'll play like it's the last. Maybe I'll play another one, maybe not. It depends. There's going to be a coaching change and I don't know if that coach will like me," said Neymar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymars-political-ideology-divides-brazilian-fans-as-the-world-cup-reaches-its-business-end-538420">Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Neymar's political ideology divides Brazilian fans</a>

How did Croatia defeat Brazil?

The quarterfinal contest between Croatia and Brazil on Friday could not be settled in the stipulated 90 minutes. Deep into the first quarter of extra time, it was a moment of brilliance from Neymar that allowed the Seleção to break open the game via a powerful shot rifled to the top of the net.&nbsp;

The move was orchestrated by none other than Neymar who started as well as finished it. After the goal, it looked certain that Brazil will see the game through. However, Croatia, the 2018 finalists increased the intensity and manage to pin the Brazilian defence back.&nbsp;

In the 117th minute, Bruno Petkovic equalised via a huge deflection from Brazil centre-back Marquinhos. As a result, the game went into penalties where&nbsp;Dominik Livaković saved a couple of penalties, thereby ensuring his team went ahead while Brazilians sunk to the ground in dismay.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-croatia-stun-brazil-4-2-on-penalties-become-1st-team-to-enter-semis-541696">Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Croatia stun Brazil 4-2 on penalties, become 1st team to enter semis</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Brazil suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the quarterfinal contest against Croatia at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. As soon as Brazil crashed out, there were speculations regarding the future of Neymar Jr - the team's superstar.

Brazil suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the quarterfinal contest against Croatia at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. As soon as Brazil crashed out, there were speculations regarding the future of Neymar Jr - the team's superstar. While many suggested it was Neymar's last dance, the player cleared that he was not closing any doors. “I am not closing any doors on the national team but I am also not guaranteeing 100 per cent that I will return,” said Neymar in a post-match conference. “I need to think a bit more about this, about what is the right thing for me and for the national team," he added. Before the beginning of the World Cup, Neymar said he was still undecided about his future but added that he will play the tournament like it was his last. "I can't guarantee that I'll play another [World] Cup. I honestly don't know. I'll play like it's the last. Maybe I'll play another one, maybe not. It depends. There's going to be a coaching change and I don't know if that coach will like me," said Neymar. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Neymar's political ideology divides Brazilian fans How did Croatia defeat Brazil? The quarterfinal contest between Croatia and Brazil on Friday could not be settled in the stipulated 90 minutes. Deep into the first quarter of extra time, it was a moment of brilliance from Neymar that allowed the Seleção to break open the game via a powerful shot rifled to the top of the net. The move was orchestrated by none other than Neymar who started as well as finished it. After the goal, it looked certain that Brazil will see the game through. However, Croatia, the 2018 finalists increased the intensity and manage to pin the Brazilian defence back. In the 117th minute, Bruno Petkovic equalised via a huge deflection from Brazil centre-back Marquinhos. As a result, the game went into penalties where Dominik Livaković saved a couple of penalties, thereby ensuring his team went ahead while Brazilians sunk to the ground in dismay. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Croatia stun Brazil 4-2 on penalties, become 1st team to enter semis (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I am not guaranteeing...': Neymar on returning for another WC after knockout exit

Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr gave a befitting reply to the social media trolls that labelled him as "fat" and "overweight". The Paris Saint-Germain star took to his official Instagram and posted a photo of himself holding up his Brazil shirt to show off his chiselled abs. "Fatty is good at football," he wrote as the caption.&nbsp;

Neymar was on the scoresheet as Brazil defeated Peru 2-0 for their eighth consecutive 2022 World Cup qualifying win on Thursday (September 9). Besides the goal, Neymar had an assist but was criticised by fans and commentators for getting involved in scuffles and not reproducing the scintillating form that has made him one of the top players of his generation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-here-to-win-again-its-not-a-vacation-says-cristiano-ronaldo-on-manchester-united-return-412133">'I am here to win again, it's not a vacation,' says Cristiano Ronaldo on Manchester United return</a>

After the win in Recife, Neymar responded to the same as he said, "I don't know what more I need to do in this shirt for the fans to respect. This isn't normal."

"This has been happening for a long time, from you reporters, commentators, and others as well. Sometimes I don't even want to give interviews but I do my bit at important moments," he added.&nbsp;

See Neymar's post here:

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He was also criticised after Brazil's 1-0 win over Chile last week, with some fans saying he looked overweight. After the match, he laughed off the criticism over his fitness.&nbsp;

In a now-deleted Instagram story, he wrote along with several laughing emojis, "The shirt was size G (large), I'm at my weight. Next game I'll order an M." He also commented about the match against Chile and wrote, "Did we play well? No! Did we win? Yes!"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-aguero-has-no-barcelona-regrets-despite-lionel-messi-exit-412111">Sergio Aguero has no Barcelona regrets despite Lionel Messi exit</a>

<img alt="Neymar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0123f39b-9af4-4dfb-9548-d280bd361604" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Neymar_0.PNG" />

The 29-year-old has been criticised since his shirtless picture, which was taken on a yacht, surfaced online and social media users started ridiculing it. As per the reports, the viral image was taken during a vacation when Neymar was relaxing after his exploits at the Copa America this year.&nbsp;

Neymar goal on Thursday was his 69th for the national team, and his 12th in World Cup qualifiers, a Brazilian record. Brazil are top of the South American qualifying group for next year's World Cup in Qatar and virtually guaranteed a spot at the finals.

Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr gave a befitting reply to the social media trolls that labelled him as "fat" and "overweight". The Paris Saint-Germain star took to his official Instagram and posted a photo of himself holding up his Brazil shirt to show off his chiselled abs.

Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr gave a befitting reply to the social media trolls that labelled him as "fat" and "overweight". The Paris Saint-Germain star took to his official Instagram and posted a photo of himself holding up his Brazil shirt to show off his chiselled abs. "Fatty is good at football," he wrote as the caption. Neymar was on the scoresheet as Brazil defeated Peru 2-0 for their eighth consecutive 2022 World Cup qualifying win on Thursday (September 9). Besides the goal, Neymar had an assist but was criticised by fans and commentators for getting involved in scuffles and not reproducing the scintillating form that has made him one of the top players of his generation. ALSO READ | 'I am here to win again, it's not a vacation,' says Cristiano Ronaldo on Manchester United return After the win in Recife, Neymar responded to the same as he said, "I don't know what more I need to do in this shirt for the fans to respect. This isn't normal." "This has been happening for a long time, from you reporters, commentators, and others as well. Sometimes I don't even want to give interviews but I do my bit at important moments," he added. See Neymar's post here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by NJ 10 🇧🇷 (@neymarjr) × He was also criticised after Brazil's 1-0 win over Chile last week, with some fans saying he looked overweight. After the match, he laughed off the criticism over his fitness. In a now-deleted Instagram story, he wrote along with several laughing emojis, "The shirt was size G (large), I'm at my weight. Next game I'll order an M." He also commented about the match against Chile and wrote, "Did we play well? No! Did we win? Yes!" ALSO READ | Sergio Aguero has no Barcelona regrets despite Lionel Messi exit The 29-year-old has been criticised since his shirtless picture, which was taken on a yacht, surfaced online and social media users started ridiculing it. As per the reports, the viral image was taken during a vacation when Neymar was relaxing after his exploits at the Copa America this year. Neymar goal on Thursday was his 69th for the national team, and his 12th in World Cup qualifiers, a Brazilian record. Brazil are top of the South American qualifying group for next year's World Cup in Qatar and virtually guaranteed a spot at the finals.

Neymar gives a befitting reply to fat-shamers, says he deserves more respect from Brazil fans

FIFA has opened an investigation into the postponement of Argentina's World Cup qualifier with Brazil with their president Gianni Infantino labelling the events "crazy" while Tottenham Hotspur were reported to be ready to take disciplinary action against their Argentine players.

Brazilian health authorities intervened on the pitch on Sunday after accusing four Argentine Premier League players of violating the country's COVID-19 quarantine rules.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Tottenham duo Cristian Romero and Giovani Lo Celso were on the Neo Quimica Arena pitch as part of the Argentine line-up when officials from Brazil's health regulator Anvisa walked onto the field and stopped the game around five minutes after kickoff.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-vs-brazil-lionel-messi-wears-photographers-vest-during-on-field-chaos-paulo-dybala-cant-stop-laughing-watch-411135">Argentina vs Brazil: Lionel Messi wears photographer's vest during on-field chaos, Paulo Dybala can't stop laughing - Watch</a>

Aston Villa midfielder Emiliano Buendia had also travelled from the UK and was in the stands.

Anvisa said that Brazilian rules make clear that travellers who have been in the UK, South Africa or India during the previous 14 days are forbidden from entering, unless they are Brazilian citizens or have permanent residency.

FIFA said they have received reports from match officials and were gathering further information.

"The information will be analysed by the competent disciplinary bodies and a decision will be taken in due course," FIFA said in a statement.

Infantino, in a video address to the European Club Association's general assembly, said the situation was a reminder of the difficulties the organisation had been facing during the pandemic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-health-officials-and-police-invaded-football-pitch-heres-why-argentina-vs-brazil-was-suspended-411125">Explained: Health officials and police invaded football pitch, here's why Argentina vs Brazil was suspended</a>

"We saw what happened with the game between Brazil and Argentine, two of South America's most glorious teams. Some officials, police, security officials entered the pitch after a few minutes of the game to take away some players - it is crazy but we need to deal with these challenges, these issues which come on top of the COVID crisis," Infantino said.

Alejandro Martinez, brother of Emiliano, said that the players were due to fly from Argentina to Croatia later on Monday in order to avoid the ten day mandatory hotel quarantine on return to the UK from a red-list country.

"They will travel to Croatia to do their quarantine there and then go to England," Alejandro told radio station La Oral Deportiva. "That was the conditions set by Aston Villa."

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) said that Martinez and Buendia had been released from the national team, meaning they will not take part in Friday's qualifier against Bolivia.

The tweet from the AFA did not make reference to the two Tottenham players.

The Tottenham players travelled to the game without the permission of their club and the website football.london said the pair could expect fines on their return to England.

Villa and Tottenham did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

FIFA has opened an investigation into the postponement of Argentina's World Cup qualifier with Brazil with their president Gianni Infantino labelling the events "crazy" while Tottenham Hotspur were reported to be ready to take disciplinary action against their Argentine players.

FIFA has opened an investigation into the postponement of Argentina's World Cup qualifier with Brazil with their president Gianni Infantino labelling the events "crazy" while Tottenham Hotspur were reported to be ready to take disciplinary action against their Argentine players. Brazilian health authorities intervened on the pitch on Sunday after accusing four Argentine Premier League players of violating the country's COVID-19 quarantine rules. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Tottenham duo Cristian Romero and Giovani Lo Celso were on the Neo Quimica Arena pitch as part of the Argentine line-up when officials from Brazil's health regulator Anvisa walked onto the field and stopped the game around five minutes after kickoff. ALSO READ | Argentina vs Brazil: Lionel Messi wears photographer's vest during on-field chaos, Paulo Dybala can't stop laughing - Watch Aston Villa midfielder Emiliano Buendia had also travelled from the UK and was in the stands. Anvisa said that Brazilian rules make clear that travellers who have been in the UK, South Africa or India during the previous 14 days are forbidden from entering, unless they are Brazilian citizens or have permanent residency. FIFA said they have received reports from match officials and were gathering further information. "The information will be analysed by the competent disciplinary bodies and a decision will be taken in due course," FIFA said in a statement. Infantino, in a video address to the European Club Association's general assembly, said the situation was a reminder of the difficulties the organisation had been facing during the pandemic. ALSO READ | Explained: Health officials and police invaded football pitch, here's why Argentina vs Brazil was suspended "We saw what happened with the game between Brazil and Argentine, two of South America's most glorious teams. Some officials, police, security officials entered the pitch after a few minutes of the game to take away some players - it is crazy but we need to deal with these challenges, these issues which come on top of the COVID crisis," Infantino said. Alejandro Martinez, brother of Emiliano, said that the players were due to fly from Argentina to Croatia later on Monday in order to avoid the ten day mandatory hotel quarantine on return to the UK from a red-list country. "They will travel to Croatia to do their quarantine there and then go to England," Alejandro told radio station La Oral Deportiva. "That was the conditions set by Aston Villa." The Argentine Football Association (AFA) said that Martinez and Buendia had been released from the national team, meaning they will not take part in Friday's qualifier against Bolivia. The tweet from the AFA did not make reference to the two Tottenham players. The Tottenham players travelled to the game without the permission of their club and the website football.london said the pair could expect fines on their return to England. Villa and Tottenham did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

FIFA chief labels Brazil postponement 'crazy', Spurs set to fine players

Argentina&nbsp;coach Lionel Scaloni lashed out at Brazilian authorities on Sunday following the dramatic suspension of the South American giants' World Cup qualifier in Sao Paulo.

Argentina's game against Brazil was stopped and later abandoned when public health officials from Brazil entered the field of play seeking to remove Albiceleste players.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, defender Cristian Romero and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso were among four England-based players in the&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;squad accused of breaching Brazil's Covid-19 quarantine protocols.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-vs-brazil-lionel-messi-wears-photographers-vest-during-on-field-chaos-paulo-dybala-cant-stop-laughing-watch-411135">Argentina vs Brazil: Lionel Messi wears photographer's vest during on-field chaos, Paulo Dybala can't stop laughing - Watch</a>

"It makes me very sad -- we are the victims in the sense that we wanted to play the game, the Brazilian players also wanted to play it and the show was to be played," Scaloni told&nbsp;Argentina's TyCSports channel.

Scaloni said the match "should have been a party for everyone, to enjoy the match with the best in the world".

Scaloni said&nbsp;Argentina, whose players left the field soon after the intervention by public health officials, could not tolerate members of the squad being deported.

"I would like people in&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;to understand that as a coach I have to defend my players and if people come in saying they wanted to take them away and deport them, there is no chance," he warned.

Scaloni added that at "no time were we told that they could not play the game".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-health-officials-and-police-invaded-football-pitch-heres-why-argentina-vs-brazil-was-suspended-411125">Explained: Health officials and police invaded football pitch, here's why Argentina vs Brazil was suspended</a>

Sunday's drama unfolded hours after Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) said Premier League players Lo Celso, Martinez, Romero and Emiliano Buendia had provided "false information" upon their entry to Brazil.

However&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Tapia said the team had followed FIFA protocols.

"It is not possible to speak of any lie," Tapia said.

Tapia said&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;were due to return to Buenos Aires later Sunday on a charter flight, insisting that the AFA had been "complying with (the protocols) and taking maximum care of our players, so that they can return to their clubs in the best way".

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lashed out at Brazilian authorities on Sunday following the dramatic suspension of the South American giants' World Cup qualifier in Sao Paulo.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lashed out at Brazilian authorities on Sunday following the dramatic suspension of the South American giants' World Cup qualifier in Sao Paulo. Argentina's game against Brazil was stopped and later abandoned when public health officials from Brazil entered the field of play seeking to remove Albiceleste players. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, defender Cristian Romero and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso were among four England-based players in the Argentina squad accused of breaching Brazil's Covid-19 quarantine protocols. ALSO READ | Argentina vs Brazil: Lionel Messi wears photographer's vest during on-field chaos, Paulo Dybala can't stop laughing - Watch "It makes me very sad -- we are the victims in the sense that we wanted to play the game, the Brazilian players also wanted to play it and the show was to be played," Scaloni told Argentina's TyCSports channel. Scaloni said the match "should have been a party for everyone, to enjoy the match with the best in the world". Scaloni said Argentina, whose players left the field soon after the intervention by public health officials, could not tolerate members of the squad being deported. "I would like people in Argentina to understand that as a coach I have to defend my players and if people come in saying they wanted to take them away and deport them, there is no chance," he warned. Scaloni added that at "no time were we told that they could not play the game". ALSO READ | Explained: Health officials and police invaded football pitch, here's why Argentina vs Brazil was suspended Sunday's drama unfolded hours after Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) said Premier League players Lo Celso, Martinez, Romero and Emiliano Buendia had provided "false information" upon their entry to Brazil. However Argentina Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Tapia said the team had followed FIFA protocols. "It is not possible to speak of any lie," Tapia said. Tapia said Argentina were due to return to Buenos Aires later Sunday on a charter flight, insisting that the AFA had been "complying with (the protocols) and taking maximum care of our players, so that they can return to their clubs in the best way".

'We're the victims', says Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni after COVID-19 chaos

The much-awaited World Cup qualifier between the South American giants Argentina and Brazil was suspended shortly after kick-off and dramatic scenes erupted on Sunday (September 5) over the controversy related to COVID-19 protocols.

The much-awaited World Cup qualifier between the South American giants Argentina and Brazil was suspended shortly after kick-off and dramatic scenes erupted on Sunday (September 5) over the controversy related to COVID-19 protocols. The Brazilian health authorities interrupted the game within less than ten minutes, accusing a number of English Premier League players of violating the country's COVID-19 quarantine rules and triggering a drama involving team officials and players from both sides. Here's what happened: As soon as the match started at Sao Paulo's Neo Quimica Arena it was suspended. According to Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the Premier League players — Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero of Tottenham, and Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez and Emiliano Buendia — provided "false information" upon their entry to Brazil. Romero, Lo Celso and Martinez were all in Argentina's starting line-up for Sunday's game — prompting the surreal intervention of ANVISA officials. ALSO READ | Bizarre scenes! Brazil-Argentina match halted as police storm on field to arrest 4 Premier League players 🚨⚽️ | NEW: Footage shows Brazilian officials entering the pitch during the Brazil vs Argentina game to allegedly detain 4 Argentinian players who had entered the country from England pic.twitter.com/3X0PkNghmN — Football For All (@FootballlForAll) September 5, 2021 × Now that the Brazil vs Argentina match is officially suspended, let's enjoy this reunion clip of Lionel Messi, Dani Alves & Neymar Jr 💙❤pic.twitter.com/EOaHMcPfp9 — Messaitama🤺🇦🇷 (@messaitama) September 5, 2021 × The four players were accused of failing to disclose that they had spent time in the United Kingdom in the 14 days before they arrived in Brazil, where COVID-19 has claimed more than 580,000 lives. The controversy comes after nine Brazilians based in the Premier League failed to travel to South America following objections from their clubs. Argentinian media outlet TyC Sports reported that the players travelled back with the rest of the squad and had been classified as 'deportees'. Who said what? However, as per the Argentina FA, the group had been in Brazilian territory since Friday (September 3) and they were complying with all of the COVID-19 related protocols and other measures regulated by Conmebol, organisers of the qualifiers. Argentina captain Lionel Messi hit out at the intervention by Brazilian officials. "We've been here for three days, why are you doing this just now?" he said on Argentina's TyC network. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was similarly incensed, telling media that "at no time were we told that they could not play the game." ALSO READ | Neymar Jr responds to fans who 'fat-shamed' him during Brazil vs Chile match The Argentina team arrived back in Buenos Aires during Monday's early hours. Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia said the federation had followed FIFA protocols for the game, pushing back at the claim that players had falsified entry records. "It is not possible to speak of any lie," Tapia said. Brazilian officials were unrepentant about the decision to halt the game. "We got to this point because everything that ANVISA directed, from the first moment, was not fulfilled," ANVISA director Antonio Barra Torres said on Brazilian television. The four players "were directed to remain isolated while awaiting deportation, but they did not comply. They went to the stadium and they entered the field, in a series of breaches," the official added. (Image: Brazil's Neymar (L) and Argentina's Lionel Messi talk before their South American qualification football match for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 at the Neo Quimica Arena, also known as Corinthians Arena, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on September 5, 2021. Source: AFP) Here's what the COVID-19 rules say: Recently, the Premier League had initially refused to release all players who were set to play international matches in red-listed countries and Brazil is one of them. A government order dating from June 23 prohibits the entry into Brazilian territory of any foreign person from the United Kingdom, India or South Africa, to prevent the spread of variants of the coronavirus. "ANVISA considers that this situation represents a serious health risk and recommends that the local health authorities (of Sao Paulo) order the immediate quarantine of the players, who are prohibited from taking part in any activity and from remaining on Brazilian territory," the agency said in a statement earlier Sunday. The agency also said Argentina's delegation had been warned in a meeting on Saturday that the players at the centre of the controversy must be quarantined and should not play any part in Sunday's game. (Image: Employees of the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) enter to the field during the South American qualification football match for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 between Brazil and Argentina at the Neo Quimica Arena, also known as Corinthians Arena, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on September 5, 2021. Source: AFP) When the match will be played? South American football's governing body CONMEBOL said in a statement that the game had been "suspended" but did not say when or if the match would be replayed, or whether either team would forfeit the game. "By decision of the match referee, the match organized by FIFA between Brazil and Argentina for the qualifiers for the World Cup is suspended," CONMEBOL said in a statement. "The referee and the match commissioner will submit a report to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which will determine the steps to follow. These procedures adhere strictly to current regulations." (inputs from agencies)

Explained: Health officials and police invaded football pitch, here's why Argentina vs Brazil was suspended

Spanish giants Barcelona on Monday have said that they had "ended out of court in an amicable fashion" the various lawsuits against their former star Neymar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-world-no1-novak-djokovic-remains-on-track-for-gold-medal-400766" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: World no.1 Novak Djokovic remains on track for gold medal</a>

"As such, a transactional agreement between the club and the player has been signed to end the legal cases that were pending between the two parties," the club said in a statement.

Last year, Barcelona decided to sue PSG star Neymar for nearly $12 million, which is the same amount they believe they overpaid the Brazilian during his time in Spain, as per a report in El Mundo.

Neymar Jr. had a successful spell for Barcelona from 2013 to 2017, before the Brazilian decided to join the French club Paris Saint-Germain on a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($262 million).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-tokyo-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400698" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

However, as per Spanish newspaper El Mundo, an inspection from the tax office in Spain showed Barcelona "did not make the appropriate reductions when paying Neymar’s taxes, according to an inspection carried out on Barcelona which lasted until 2015".

According to the Spanish tax office's calculation, Neymar benefitted from "unfair enrichment". A source close to Barcelona told AFP that the club will now seek to reclaim the amount they are owed.

As per an official document released in September, the Brazilian striker has more unpaid tax with the Spanish authorities than any other person, with debts of 34.6 million euros.&nbsp;

Spanish giants Barcelona on Monday have said that they had "ended out of court in an amicable fashion" the various lawsuits against their former star Neymar. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: World no.

Spanish giants Barcelona on Monday have said that they had "ended out of court in an amicable fashion" the various lawsuits against their former star Neymar. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: World no.1 Novak Djokovic remains on track for gold medal "As such, a transactional agreement between the club and the player has been signed to end the legal cases that were pending between the two parties," the club said in a statement. Last year, Barcelona decided to sue PSG star Neymar for nearly $12 million, which is the same amount they believe they overpaid the Brazilian during his time in Spain, as per a report in El Mundo. Neymar Jr. had a successful spell for Barcelona from 2013 to 2017, before the Brazilian decided to join the French club Paris Saint-Germain on a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($262 million). ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback However, as per Spanish newspaper El Mundo, an inspection from the tax office in Spain showed Barcelona "did not make the appropriate reductions when paying Neymar’s taxes, according to an inspection carried out on Barcelona which lasted until 2015". According to the Spanish tax office's calculation, Neymar benefitted from "unfair enrichment". A source close to Barcelona told AFP that the club will now seek to reclaim the amount they are owed. As per an official document released in September, the Brazilian striker has more unpaid tax with the Spanish authorities than any other person, with debts of 34.6 million euros.

Football: FC Barcelona settle lawsuits with former player Neymar Jr

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-owners-to-discuss-fan-share-ownership-383597" hreflang="en">Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership"</a>

The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a &nbsp;record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026.

The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals.&nbsp;

The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season.&nbsp;

In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract.

He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat.

Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026. The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals. The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season. In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract. He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat. Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties. (Inputs from Reuters)

Neymar Jr. set to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Reports

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-beat-tigres-1-0-in-club-world-cup-final-for-sixth-title-in-9-months-363133" hreflang="en">Bayern beat Tigres 1-0 in Club World Cup final for sixth title in 9 months</a>

Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10.&nbsp;

The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017.

However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.&nbsp;

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday. ALSO READ: Bayern beat Tigres 1-0 in Club World Cup final for sixth title in 9 months Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe. The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10. The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017. However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.

Neymar to miss trip to Barcelona for Champions League clash due to groin injury

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-club-odisha-fc-sack-head-coach-stuart-baxter-after-shocking-rape-analogy-360818" hreflang="en">ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy</a>

As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration.&nbsp;

In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar.

The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid.

Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million.&nbsp;

He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration. In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar. The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid. Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million. He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Football star Neymar extends his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Report

PSG star Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of Brazil's World Cup qualifier clash against Uruguay as he sustained a groin injury will playing for his French club in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-denied-as-argentina-held-by-paraguay-in-world-cup-qualifying-342862" hreflang="en">Messi denied as Argentina held by Paraguay in World Cup qualifying</a>

Brazilian football confederation confirmed on Thursday that the star footballer will not feature in the South American qualifying match on Tuesday in Montevideo.

Last week, PSG manager Thomas Tuchel said that it would be "impossible" for Neymar to play for Brazil as he recovered from the injury, however, the Brazil coach Tite was still in favour that the star striker travel for the international match.&nbsp;

According to Brazil national team's doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, Neymar’s recovery after four days off training was not enough. Tite, on the other hand, had called up Flamengo striker Pedro for the matches as Neymar's replacement without removing the PSG star from the squad.&nbsp;

Neymar's absence will be a huge blow to injury-plagued Brazil as they already lost five players for the two matches, including injured midfielders Philippe Coutinho and Fabinho, and defender Rodrigo Caio. Defenders Eder Militão and Gabriel Menino were ruled out after contracting COVID-19. Pedro was selected for Brazil in September 2018 but was unable to make his debut after sustaining a series knee injury.

PSG star Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of Brazil's World Cup qualifier clash against Uruguay as he sustained a groin injury will playing for his French club in the Champions League.

PSG star Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of Brazil's World Cup qualifier clash against Uruguay as he sustained a groin injury will playing for his French club in the Champions League. Also read: Messi denied as Argentina held by Paraguay in World Cup qualifying Brazilian football confederation confirmed on Thursday that the star footballer will not feature in the South American qualifying match on Tuesday in Montevideo. Last week, PSG manager Thomas Tuchel said that it would be "impossible" for Neymar to play for Brazil as he recovered from the injury, however, the Brazil coach Tite was still in favour that the star striker travel for the international match. According to Brazil national team's doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, Neymar’s recovery after four days off training was not enough. Tite, on the other hand, had called up Flamengo striker Pedro for the matches as Neymar's replacement without removing the PSG star from the squad. Neymar's absence will be a huge blow to injury-plagued Brazil as they already lost five players for the two matches, including injured midfielders Philippe Coutinho and Fabinho, and defender Rodrigo Caio. Defenders Eder Militão and Gabriel Menino were ruled out after contracting COVID-19. Pedro was selected for Brazil in September 2018 but was unable to make his debut after sustaining a series knee injury.

Injury-plagued Brazil suffer big blow as Neymar ruled out of World Cup qualifiers

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward.

"We know that Neymar wants to leave PSG but we also know that PSG don't want him to go, so there is no case for signing him," Bartomeu told a news conference on Friday.

Bartomeu also revealed a meeting between Barca CEO Oscar Grau and Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-hold-talks-with-atletico-over-antoine-griezmann-signing-233403">signing France forward Antoine Griezmann</a>, who announced in May that he was leaving the Madrid side.

Griezmann's buy-out clause has fallen from €200 million ($224.4 million) to 120 million euros, but Bartomeu said his club are trying to reach a deal without paying the clause.

"Yesterday we had a meeting in Madrid, Gil Marin and Oscar Grau saw each other and we asked if it was possible to negotiate for Griezmann," he added.

Griezmann turned down a move to Barca last year, revealing he was staying at Atletico in a televised documentary called "The Decision".

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said his club are aware that Neymar wants to leave Paris St Germain to return to the La Liga champions but the French club are reluctant to sell the Brazilian forward. "We know that Neymar wants to leave PSG but we also know that PSG don't want him to go, so there is no case for signing him," Bartomeu told a news conference on Friday. Bartomeu also revealed a meeting between Barca CEO Oscar Grau and Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin over the signing France forward Antoine Griezmann, who announced in May that he was leaving the Madrid side. Griezmann's buy-out clause has fallen from €200 million ($224.4 million) to 120 million euros, but Bartomeu said his club are trying to reach a deal without paying the clause. "Yesterday we had a meeting in Madrid, Gil Marin and Oscar Grau saw each other and we asked if it was possible to negotiate for Griezmann," he added. Griezmann turned down a move to Barca last year, revealing he was staying at Atletico in a televised documentary called "The Decision".

Neymar wants to leave PSG but they don't want to sell him: Barca president

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shape-up-or-ship-out-neymar-in-question-as-psg-chief-blasts-clubs-celebrity-behaviour-227930">Paris Saint-Germain striker Neymar</a>'s off-pitch woes continue to mount, as Brazilian tax authorities put a freeze on dozens of his mansions and other properties amid a long-running tax dispute, local media reported Monday.

The Folha de S.Paulo newspaper reported that Brazilian authorities blocked 36 properties in Brazil as they seek $18 million&nbsp;in back taxes. They claim that amount is due in connection with Neymar's 2013 transfer from Santos to Barcelona.

The action means Neymar can use the properties but not sell them.

Folha cited an unspecified court ruling as approving the action by Brazil tax authorities. It was not immediately possible to locate the ruling.

Brazil's tax agency did not respond to a request for comment. A spokeswoman for Neymar did not have a comment.

In addition to his tax fight, Neymar in recent weeks has been accused of rape, an allegation that Brazilian police are investigating.

A Brazilian woman accused Neymar, 27, of raping her at a Paris hotel last month. He denies the allegation and says the relationship was consensual.

On Sunday, a report in L'Equipe said that Paris Saint-Germain are prepared to sell Neymar, as chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi warned that irresponsible behaviour from players won't be tolerated anymore.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Neymar's off-pitch woes continue to mount, as Brazilian tax authorities put a freeze on dozens of his mansions and other properties amid a long-running tax dispute, local media reported Monday.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Neymar's off-pitch woes continue to mount, as Brazilian tax authorities put a freeze on dozens of his mansions and other properties amid a long-running tax dispute, local media reported Monday. The Folha de S.Paulo newspaper reported that Brazilian authorities blocked 36 properties in Brazil as they seek $18 million in back taxes. They claim that amount is due in connection with Neymar's 2013 transfer from Santos to Barcelona. The action means Neymar can use the properties but not sell them. Folha cited an unspecified court ruling as approving the action by Brazil tax authorities. It was not immediately possible to locate the ruling. Brazil's tax agency did not respond to a request for comment. A spokeswoman for Neymar did not have a comment. In addition to his tax fight, Neymar in recent weeks has been accused of rape, an allegation that Brazilian police are investigating. A Brazilian woman accused Neymar, 27, of raping her at a Paris hotel last month. He denies the allegation and says the relationship was consensual. On Sunday, a report in L'Equipe said that Paris Saint-Germain are prepared to sell Neymar, as chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi warned that irresponsible behaviour from players won't be tolerated anymore.

Brazil authorities put freeze on Neymar mansions amid tax dispute

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi warned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-questioned-for-five-hours-by-brazil-police-over-alleged-rape-charges-227049">Neymar</a> and his other highly-paid stars on Sunday that they must shape-up or ship-out, claiming "celebrity behaviour" at the French champions will not be tolerated.

"The players will have to assume their responsibilities even more than before," Al-Khelaifi told France Football in an interview to be published on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It must be completely different, they will have to do more, work more. They are not here to please themselves and if they do not agree, the doors are open. I do not want to have celebrity behaviour anymore.

"I have realised that changes were essential, otherwise we're going nowhere."

Although he wasn't named, there seems little doubt that Brazilian star Neymar was the chief target of Al-Khelaifi's blast.

The 27-year-old Neymar was questioned by Brazilian police for five hours on Thursday over allegations he raped a woman he met through social media in a Paris hotel last month -- charges he has denied.

Neymar has been plagued by controversy in France.

Injured and forced to watch from the stands as PSG were knocked out of the Champions League by Manchester United in March, Neymar aimed obscene language at the match officials on Instagram.&nbsp;

"It's a disgrace. They get four guys who don't understand football to watch a slow motion replay in front of the TV," he wrote.

Neymar was handed a three-match suspension by UEFA for those insults which rule him out of PSG's opening fixtures in next season's European campaign.

Neymar then scored in PSG's French Cup final defeat by Rennes but hits a supporter as he collects his runners-up medal at the Stade de France.

He is given a further two-game ban while the Brazilian press brand him a "coward" and a "rebellious teenager".&nbsp;

Brazil boss Tite took the skipper's armband away from the 96-time international and gave it to club team-mate Dani Alves instead although it proved academic as Neymar was then ruled out of the Copa America due to an ankle ligament injury picked up in a friendly.

Al-Khelaifi's outburst comes just days after former PSG sporting director Leonardo returned to the club in the same position replacing Antero Henrique.

The Brazilian had already warned that no player should be above the "institution" of PSG, in an interview with Canal+ a few weeks after the arrival of Neymar in 2017.&nbsp;

"It does not matter if Neymar is Neymar, if Cristiano Ronaldo is Cristiano Ronaldo, the club is an institution to respect," said Leonardo.

PSG won the French Ligue 1 title for a sixth time in seven seasons.

However, in a disappointing European run, Thomas Tuchel's men failed to reach the later stages of the Champions League losing to Manchester United in the last 16.

They have now lost in the last 16 in three straight seasons.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi warned Neymar and his other highly-paid stars on Sunday that they must shape-up or ship-out, claiming "celebrity behaviour" at the French champions will not be tolerated.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi warned Neymar and his other highly-paid stars on Sunday that they must shape-up or ship-out, claiming "celebrity behaviour" at the French champions will not be tolerated. "The players will have to assume their responsibilities even more than before," Al-Khelaifi told France Football in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "It must be completely different, they will have to do more, work more. They are not here to please themselves and if they do not agree, the doors are open. I do not want to have celebrity behaviour anymore. "I have realised that changes were essential, otherwise we're going nowhere." Although he wasn't named, there seems little doubt that Brazilian star Neymar was the chief target of Al-Khelaifi's blast. The 27-year-old Neymar was questioned by Brazilian police for five hours on Thursday over allegations he raped a woman he met through social media in a Paris hotel last month -- charges he has denied. Neymar has been plagued by controversy in France. Injured and forced to watch from the stands as PSG were knocked out of the Champions League by Manchester United in March, Neymar aimed obscene language at the match officials on Instagram. "It's a disgrace. They get four guys who don't understand football to watch a slow motion replay in front of the TV," he wrote. Neymar was handed a three-match suspension by UEFA for those insults which rule him out of PSG's opening fixtures in next season's European campaign. Neymar then scored in PSG's French Cup final defeat by Rennes but hits a supporter as he collects his runners-up medal at the Stade de France. He is given a further two-game ban while the Brazilian press brand him a "coward" and a "rebellious teenager". Brazil boss Tite took the skipper's armband away from the 96-time international and gave it to club team-mate Dani Alves instead although it proved academic as Neymar was then ruled out of the Copa America due to an ankle ligament injury picked up in a friendly. Al-Khelaifi's outburst comes just days after former PSG sporting director Leonardo returned to the club in the same position replacing Antero Henrique. The Brazilian had already warned that no player should be above the "institution" of PSG, in an interview with Canal+ a few weeks after the arrival of Neymar in 2017. "It does not matter if Neymar is Neymar, if Cristiano Ronaldo is Cristiano Ronaldo, the club is an institution to respect," said Leonardo. PSG won the French Ligue 1 title for a sixth time in seven seasons. However, in a disappointing European run, Thomas Tuchel's men failed to reach the later stages of the Champions League losing to Manchester United in the last 16. They have now lost in the last 16 in three straight seasons.

Shape-up or ship-out: Neymar in question as PSG chief blasts club's 'celebrity behaviour'

Nike Inc is "very concerned" about a rape accusation against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazils-neymar-records-statement-at-rio-police-station-over-rape-accusation-225168">Brazilian soccer star </a>Neymar, the world's largest sportswear maker said on Thursday, raising questions about its sponsorship of one of the sport's most famous players.

Nike issued a statement a day after a woman said in an interview with Brazilian SBT TV that Neymar had raped her in a Paris hotel last month. Neymar denied the allegation in an Instagram post and has said the woman was trying to extort him.

"We are very concerned by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazils-neymar-out-of-copa-america-after-tearing-ankle-ligament-224880">recent allegations</a> and will continue to closely monitor the situation," Nike said when asked about the accusation against Neymar, who plays his club soccer with French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

A press representative for Neymar declined to comment on his sponsorships.

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Neymar's lawyer Maira Fernandes, speaking to journalists in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, did not address his sponsorship deals. She said her client was innocent of the allegation made against him.

A press representative for Mastercard in Brazil confirmed that the company had planned an advertising campaign to coincide with this month's Copa America tournament but she did not confirm reports in Brazil's three biggest newspapers that Mastercard had decided to suspend Neymar's featuring in it.

US press representatives for Mastercard did not reply to requests for comment.

Brazilian airline Gol Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA, which featured Neymar in the run-up to the 2018 World Cup, said it was a sponsor of the national team but not individual players. A press representative declined to comment on the accusation against Neymar.

McDonald's Corp and Procter &amp; Gamble Co's Gillette brand, which both featured Neymar prominently in ad campaigns last year, said they had no current contract with him.

Police report

A police report showed that a woman had accused Neymar, 27, of raping her at a Paris hotel last month. Sao Paulo police are investigating the accusation. According to the police report, she told investigators that she met Neymar on Instagram. Neymar suggested they meet in person in Paris and he paid for her flight and her hotel room, the report said.

After media reports on the allegation, Neymar posted a video on Instagram, in which he denied the accusations, said he was a victim of extortion and shared messages he exchanged with the woman, including racy photos he had received.

That led police in Rio de Janeiro to open an investigation into whether Neymar had committed a crime by posting those intimate pictures online.

Neymar's lawyer Fernandes said that Neymar had already spoken with police investigating the cybercrime, but had not yet arranged a time to go to Sao Paulo to speak with police about the rape accusation, but was committed to doing so.

On Wednesday night the woman, Najila de Souza, gave her first on-camera interview since her accusation became public.

"I was a victim of rape," de Souza told SBT TV.

Some of Neymar's teammates have come out in support of him, but national team coach Tite told journalists on Monday that he did not want to pass judgment on the matter.

The Brazilian Football Confederation said on Thursday that Neymar would be dropped from the Brazil team for the Copa America because of an ankle injury suffered in a friendly match against Qatar.

Nike Inc is "very concerned" about a rape accusation against Brazilian soccer star Neymar, the world's largest sportswear maker said on Thursday, raising questions about its sponsorship of one of the sport's most famous players.

Nike Inc is "very concerned" about a rape accusation against Brazilian soccer star Neymar, the world's largest sportswear maker said on Thursday, raising questions about its sponsorship of one of the sport's most famous players. Nike issued a statement a day after a woman said in an interview with Brazilian SBT TV that Neymar had raped her in a Paris hotel last month. Neymar denied the allegation in an Instagram post and has said the woman was trying to extort him. "We are very concerned by the recent allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation," Nike said when asked about the accusation against Neymar, who plays his club soccer with French champions Paris Saint-Germain. A press representative for Neymar declined to comment on his sponsorships. × Neymar's lawyer Maira Fernandes, speaking to journalists in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, did not address his sponsorship deals. She said her client was innocent of the allegation made against him. A press representative for Mastercard in Brazil confirmed that the company had planned an advertising campaign to coincide with this month's Copa America tournament but she did not confirm reports in Brazil's three biggest newspapers that Mastercard had decided to suspend Neymar's featuring in it. US press representatives for Mastercard did not reply to requests for comment. Brazilian airline Gol Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA, which featured Neymar in the run-up to the 2018 World Cup, said it was a sponsor of the national team but not individual players. A press representative declined to comment on the accusation against Neymar. McDonald's Corp and Procter & Gamble Co's Gillette brand, which both featured Neymar prominently in ad campaigns last year, said they had no current contract with him. Police report A police report showed that a woman had accused Neymar, 27, of raping her at a Paris hotel last month. Sao Paulo police are investigating the accusation. According to the police report, she told investigators that she met Neymar on Instagram. Neymar suggested they meet in person in Paris and he paid for her flight and her hotel room, the report said. After media reports on the allegation, Neymar posted a video on Instagram, in which he denied the accusations, said he was a victim of extortion and shared messages he exchanged with the woman, including racy photos he had received. That led police in Rio de Janeiro to open an investigation into whether Neymar had committed a crime by posting those intimate pictures online. Neymar's lawyer Fernandes said that Neymar had already spoken with police investigating the cybercrime, but had not yet arranged a time to go to Sao Paulo to speak with police about the rape accusation, but was committed to doing so. On Wednesday night the woman, Najila de Souza, gave her first on-camera interview since her accusation became public. "I was a victim of rape," de Souza told SBT TV. Some of Neymar's teammates have come out in support of him, but national team coach Tite told journalists on Monday that he did not want to pass judgment on the matter. The Brazilian Football Confederation said on Thursday that Neymar would be dropped from the Brazil team for the Copa America because of an ankle injury suffered in a friendly match against Qatar.

Nike 'very concerned' about rape accusation against Brazilian football star Neymar

Depression, injuries, rape allegation and more, here's a look back at Neymar's difficult season

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday.

PSG's star striker posted Instagram images of himself in Brazil with his family on Thursday.&nbsp;

Neymar was rested for the club's previous match, against Orleans in the French League Cup on Tuesday because of thigh pains.

Asked on Friday, on the eve of a Ligue 1 match against Nantes, if the club had signed off on Neymar's early departure, Tuchel answered "Yes."

The player "left with my permission," the coach said adding, with a laugh: "it's better that way!"&nbsp;

Neymar's last appearance was against Red Star Belgrade in a key Champions League match on December 11 when he scored as PSG won 4-1 to secure a place in the last 16.

"Ney played injured against Belgrade," Tuchel said. "It was a risk but it was super important to take the risk. We are glad that things were not worse after the match."

"He wants to play every game, against Orleans and Nantes," the German added. "It's always the same with him, but it's time to be smart and take no chances with this injury."

Tuchel said Neymar could now "stay relaxed and rest for two weeks".

PSG are 10 points clear and are unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. Visiting Nantes are mired in mid table under former PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic.&nbsp;

After Saturday, PSG's next match is against Pontlivy, from the regional fifth division, in the French Cup on January 6. Their next league match is at Amiens on January 12.

Tuchel said he was hoping to use the break to strengthen his squad.

PSG seem likely to lose midfielder Adrien Rabiot and have yet to entirely replace central defender Thiago Motta, who retired in the summer but Tuchel said he wanted duplicates of two of the club's current starters.

"It's easy," Tuchel said. "Another Marco Verratti and another Marquinhos and I'll be happy."

"Top lads with a personality and the highest quality are hard to find."

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday.

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday. PSG's star striker posted Instagram images of himself in Brazil with his family on Thursday. Neymar was rested for the club's previous match, against Orleans in the French League Cup on Tuesday because of thigh pains. Asked on Friday, on the eve of a Ligue 1 match against Nantes, if the club had signed off on Neymar's early departure, Tuchel answered "Yes." The player "left with my permission," the coach said adding, with a laugh: "it's better that way!" Neymar's last appearance was against Red Star Belgrade in a key Champions League match on December 11 when he scored as PSG won 4-1 to secure a place in the last 16. "Ney played injured against Belgrade," Tuchel said. "It was a risk but it was super important to take the risk. We are glad that things were not worse after the match." "He wants to play every game, against Orleans and Nantes," the German added. "It's always the same with him, but it's time to be smart and take no chances with this injury." Tuchel said Neymar could now "stay relaxed and rest for two weeks". PSG are 10 points clear and are unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. Visiting Nantes are mired in mid table under former PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic. After Saturday, PSG's next match is against Pontlivy, from the regional fifth division, in the French Cup on January 6. Their next league match is at Amiens on January 12. Tuchel said he was hoping to use the break to strengthen his squad. PSG seem likely to lose midfielder Adrien Rabiot and have yet to entirely replace central defender Thiago Motta, who retired in the summer but Tuchel said he wanted duplicates of two of the club's current starters. "It's easy," Tuchel said. "Another Marco Verratti and another Marquinhos and I'll be happy." "Top lads with a personality and the highest quality are hard to find."

Neymar went home early 'with my permission', says Tuchel

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3).

The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style.

Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time.

Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille.

"I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr.

Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014.

He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August.

The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia.

Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3). The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style. Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time. Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille. "I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr. Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014. He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August. The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia. Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Watch: Don't want to be better than Zico, Pele, says Brazil's Neymar

Brazil star Neymar made a stunning return from injury with a superb goal in their 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia on Sunday.

Just 98 days after suffering an injury he feared would keep him out of the upcoming World Cup in Russia, Neymar was back with a bang at Anfield.&nbsp

The Paris Saint-Germain forward appeared as a half-time replacement for Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho as the Selecao stepped up their World Cup preparations.

And Neymar needed just 23 minutes to prove how important he is to Brazil's hopes of a sixth world title.

Receiving a pass from Philippe Coutinho, Neymar cut into the area, beating Sime Vrsaljko and Duje Caleta-Car with impressive close control and dribbling, before burying a shot into the roof of the goal, via the crossbar, from the edge of the six-yard area.

Neymar ran behind the goal, in front of Anfield's legendary Kop End, and punched the air in obvious delight as he was mobbed by team-mates.

The sublime strike leaves Neymar on 54 goals for his national team, one behind Romario, who is third on the country's all-time list, and with only Pele and Ronaldo ahead of him in the Brazil record books.

Liverpool's Roberto Firmino, on his home ground, completed the victory in stoppage time when he controlled a through ball on his chest and calmly beat the advancing keeper with a delicate lob.

Neymar, the world's most expensive player following his blockbuster move from Barcelona last year, had been sidelined since the end of February when he fractured his foot playing for PSG in a league victory against Marseille.

He sprained his ankle and fractured his fifth metatarsal, requiring an operation which had left the 26-year-old facing a battle to be fit in time for Brazil's opening World Cup match with Switzerland in Rostov-on-Don on June 17.

Biggest challenge

Neymar had spoken last month of his concerns about winning that race and described his rehabilitation as the biggest challenge of his career.

He also sat out training with the national team at Tottenham's London base on Thursday as a precaution.

But Brazil coach Tite had announced his intention to use Neymar against Croatia, with the Brazilians having just one more warm-up game - against Austria in Vienna on June 10 - in which his asset can gain much-needed game-time.

True to his word, Tite brought on Neymar at the interval and he appeared comfortable, steering an early shot, from a wide angle on the edge of the area, directly at goalkeeper Danijel Subasic who saved well.

It was a notable afternoon also for former Liverpool striker Coutinho, who made his first appearance at Anfield since his transfer to Barcelona in January, and received a smattering of boos from some of his old club's supporters.

He formed part of a potent three-man forward line that also featured Chelsea's Willian and Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, who was named captain for the day, the 15th player to wear the armband under the reign of manager Tite.

Despite the looming spectre of the World Cup, now less than two weeks away, the game proved a physical one.

Croatia's Andrej Kramaric and Ivan Perisic were both cautioned by English referee Michael Oliver in the first half, along with Brazilian Fernandinho whose high-footed challenge left Vrsaljko needing a large bandage to a head wound.

Neymar's introduction at the start of the second half drew an enthusiastic reaction, from the Anfield crowd and his team-mates alike.

He joined Jesus and Willian in attack, with Coutinho dropping into the midfield place vacated by Fernandinho.&nbsp

Brazil instantly appeared more threatening, with the PSG man linking up quickly with Jesus.&nbsp

Before Neymar's brilliant opener, Croatia might have struck first when Ante Rebic's header forced a fine save from Alisson.

Brazil star Neymar made a stunning return from injury with a superb goal in their 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia on Sunday

Brazil star Neymar made a stunning return from injury with a superb goal in their 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia on Sunday. Just 98 days after suffering an injury he feared would keep him out of the upcoming World Cup in Russia, Neymar was back with a bang at Anfield. The Paris Saint-Germain forward appeared as a half-time replacement for Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho as the Selecao stepped up their World Cup preparations. And Neymar needed just 23 minutes to prove how important he is to Brazil's hopes of a sixth world title. Receiving a pass from Philippe Coutinho, Neymar cut into the area, beating Sime Vrsaljko and Duje Caleta-Car with impressive close control and dribbling, before burying a shot into the roof of the goal, via the crossbar, from the edge of the six-yard area. Neymar ran behind the goal, in front of Anfield's legendary Kop End, and punched the air in obvious delight as he was mobbed by team-mates. The sublime strike leaves Neymar on 54 goals for his national team, one behind Romario, who is third on the country's all-time list, and with only Pele and Ronaldo ahead of him in the Brazil record books. Liverpool's Roberto Firmino, on his home ground, completed the victory in stoppage time when he controlled a through ball on his chest and calmly beat the advancing keeper with a delicate lob. Neymar, the world's most expensive player following his blockbuster move from Barcelona last year, had been sidelined since the end of February when he fractured his foot playing for PSG in a league victory against Marseille. He sprained his ankle and fractured his fifth metatarsal, requiring an operation which had left the 26-year-old facing a battle to be fit in time for Brazil's opening World Cup match with Switzerland in Rostov-on-Don on June 17. Biggest challenge Neymar had spoken last month of his concerns about winning that race and described his rehabilitation as the biggest challenge of his career. He also sat out training with the national team at Tottenham's London base on Thursday as a precaution. But Brazil coach Tite had announced his intention to use Neymar against Croatia, with the Brazilians having just one more warm-up game - against Austria in Vienna on June 10 - in which his asset can gain much-needed game-time. True to his word, Tite brought on Neymar at the interval and he appeared comfortable, steering an early shot, from a wide angle on the edge of the area, directly at goalkeeper Danijel Subasic who saved well. It was a notable afternoon also for former Liverpool striker Coutinho, who made his first appearance at Anfield since his transfer to Barcelona in January, and received a smattering of boos from some of his old club's supporters. He formed part of a potent three-man forward line that also featured Chelsea's Willian and Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, who was named captain for the day, the 15th player to wear the armband under the reign of manager Tite. Despite the looming spectre of the World Cup, now less than two weeks away, the game proved a physical one. Croatia's Andrej Kramaric and Ivan Perisic were both cautioned by English referee Michael Oliver in the first half, along with Brazilian Fernandinho whose high-footed challenge left Vrsaljko needing a large bandage to a head wound. Neymar's introduction at the start of the second half drew an enthusiastic reaction, from the Anfield crowd and his team-mates alike. He joined Jesus and Willian in attack, with Coutinho dropping into the midfield place vacated by Fernandinho. Brazil instantly appeared more threatening, with the PSG man linking up quickly with Jesus. Before Neymar's brilliant opener, Croatia might have struck first when Ante Rebic's header forced a fine save from Alisson.

World Cup friendlies: Neymar scores after comeback from injury as Brazil beat Croatia 2-0

There are&nbsp;13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:

Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.

Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.

Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.

Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.

Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;

Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.

John Terry: This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list.

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Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.

Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;

Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.

Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.

Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.

Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: 13 'unlucky' players in world football

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:

Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.

Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.

Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.

Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.

Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;

Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.

John Terry:&nbsp;Watch the video to know why&nbsp;John Terry is included in this&nbsp;list.&nbsp;The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation.

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Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.

Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;

Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.

Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not&nbsp;compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin&nbsp;has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.

Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.

Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: Watch the video to know why John Terry is included in this list. The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: List of 13 'unlucky' players in football world

Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit"&nbspfor the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14.

Paris-Saint Germain star player also mentioned that he feels discomfort while recovering&nbspbut believes that he will be better for the tournament.

The 26-year-old, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot in February in a match against Marseille.

"Physically I am well, my foot is fine. I am adapting in a few things. I still feel some discomfort, but it is not something that will trouble me," Neymar told journalists at Brazil's football confederation headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.

Recently, he said, "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup."&nbsp

Neymar, who missed Brazil's 7-1 semi-final thrashing on home soil by Germany through injury four years ago, is key to his country's hopes at this year's World Cup, which starts on June 14.

Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit" for the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14

Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit"&nbspfor the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14. Paris-Saint Germain star player also mentioned that he feels discomfort while recovering&nbspbut believes that he will be better for the tournament. The 26-year-old, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot in February in a match against Marseille. "Physically I am well, my foot is fine. I am adapting in a few things. I still feel some discomfort, but it is not something that will trouble me," Neymar told journalists at Brazil's football confederation headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. Recently, he said, "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup." Neymar, who missed Brazil's 7-1 semi-final thrashing on home soil by Germany through injury four years ago, is key to his country's hopes at this year's World Cup, which starts on June 14.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Neymar admits he is not '100% fit'

Brazil's star striker Neymar admits "fear" ahead of his return for the World Cup after a lengthy layoff following surgery for a broken bone in his foot.

In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia.

"Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup," the 26-year-old, who has been out since the end of February, said.

The interview with Zico, a great from Brazil's 1980s team, took place last week, just before Neymar returned to France, where he is expected to restart training shortly with Paris Saint-Germain.

He still hopes to be completely rehabilitated by the June 14 start of the World Cup. Brazil's opening game is against Switzerland on June 17.

"The idea is that he can return to working on the field from next week provided that he responds favorably to tomorrow's test," Brazilian team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told selected media, including AFP, in Paris.

Neymar said that at first his return to competitive levels was "complicated. I was always afraid of making complete movements and I'd end up compensating".

The star also lauded his PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe, who is just 19, as "the best in the world for his age".

"He's a phenomenon. I've already told (Brazil midfielder) Casemiro that he'll have to take care of him" if Brazil face France in Russia.

&nbsp

In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia

Brazil's star striker Neymar admits "fear" ahead of his return for the World Cup after a lengthy layoff following surgery for a broken bone in his foot. In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia. "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup," the 26-year-old, who has been out since the end of February, said. The interview with Zico, a great from Brazil's 1980s team, took place last week, just before Neymar returned to France, where he is expected to restart training shortly with Paris Saint-Germain. He still hopes to be completely rehabilitated by the June 14 start of the World Cup. Brazil's opening game is against Switzerland on June 17. "The idea is that he can return to working on the field from next week provided that he responds favorably to tomorrow's test," Brazilian team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told selected media, including AFP, in Paris. Neymar said that at first his return to competitive levels was "complicated. I was always afraid of making complete movements and I'd end up compensating". The star also lauded his PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe, who is just 19, as "the best in the world for his age". "He's a phenomenon. I've already told (Brazil midfielder) Casemiro that he'll have to take care of him" if Brazil face France in Russia.

Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018

Paris Saint-Germain defender Dani Alves suffered a knee injury while playing Coupe de France final match and immediately attended by a team of doctors. Now, it is confirmed now that he won't be able to recover in time to make it to Russia.

The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018.

Dani Alves' ouster is a major blow to the Brazil team as Alves has been a key figure for upcoming football world cup.

<img alt="000_14S5ZL_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/000_14S5ZL_0.jpg" width="770" />

Brazil coach, Tite have already been dealing with injuries of star player Neymar and defender Filipe Luis and now Dani Alves ouster is a big concern.&nbsp;

Although, Brazil team are aiming for a sixth title, starts in Russia on June 14.

The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury

Paris Saint-Germain defender Dani Alves suffered a knee injury while playing Coupe de France final match and immediately attended by a team of doctors. Now, it is confirmed now that he won't be able to recover in time to make it to Russia. The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018. Dani Alves' ouster is a major blow to the Brazil team as Alves has been a key figure for upcoming football world cup. Brazil coach, Tite have already been dealing with injuries of star player Neymar and defender Filipe Luis and now Dani Alves ouster is a big concern. Although, Brazil team are aiming for a sixth title, starts in Russia on June 14.

Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018

Out-of-favour Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba said it would be a pleasure to play with Paris Saint-Germain&#39;s Neymar, whom he described as pure &quot;joy on the pitch&quot; in an interview with an Argentine sports channel Tuesday.

&quot;Neymar is the definition of joy on the pitch,&quot; the French international told Argentina&#39;s TyC Sports.

&quot;When I look at him on the pitch, he enjoys playing, with his technique, his ability and all that.&nbsp;

&quot;I love watching him play. He&#39;s a different guy, he has his own style. If one day I&#39;m going to play with him, it&#39;ll be a pleasure.&quot;

He was returning the favour after Neymar said in 2016 that he admired Pogba&#39;s style and would love to play alongside him.

Pogba, despite arriving at United in 2016 for a then world-record fee of &pound;89 million (105 million euros), has fallen out of favour with manager Jose Mourhino, leading to speculation about his future.

France coach Didier Deschamps said &quot;he can&#39;t be happy&quot; with his current situation at Old Trafford after the 25-year-old joined up with the squad for Friday&#39;s friendly against Colombia.

Neymar, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot last month in a match against Marseille.

&nbsp;

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba said it would be a pleasure to play with Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar, whom he described as pure 'joy on the pitch'

Out-of-favour Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba said it would be a pleasure to play with Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar, whom he described as pure "joy on the pitch" in an interview with an Argentine sports channel Tuesday. "Neymar is the definition of joy on the pitch," the French international told Argentina's TyC Sports. "When I look at him on the pitch, he enjoys playing, with his technique, his ability and all that. "I love watching him play. He's a different guy, he has his own style. If one day I'm going to play with him, it'll be a pleasure." He was returning the favour after Neymar said in 2016 that he admired Pogba's style and would love to play alongside him. Pogba, despite arriving at United in 2016 for a then world-record fee of £89 million (105 million euros), has fallen out of favour with manager Jose Mourhino, leading to speculation about his future. France coach Didier Deschamps said "he can't be happy" with his current situation at Old Trafford after the 25-year-old joined up with the squad for Friday's friendly against Colombia. Neymar, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot last month in a match against Marseille.

'Neymar is the definition of joy on the pitch,' says Paul Pogba

Brazilian striker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-striker-neymar-jr-suffers-metatarsal-fracture-34158">Neymar Jr</a>,&nbsp;currently struggling with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-striker-neymar-jr-suffers-metatarsal-fracture-34158">metatarsal injury</a> has been trolled online for his &quot;insensitive&quot; tribute to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/stephen-hawking-a-brief-history-of-genius-35758">late Stephen Hawking</a>, who died yesterday at the age of 76.

Neymar shared a picture on social networking sites, featuring him in a bathing suit and sitting on a wheelchair.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgUBS9UjwEL/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Voc&ecirc; tem que ter uma atitude positiva e tirar o melhor da situa&ccedil;&atilde;o na qual se encontra. Stephen Hawking</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/neymarjr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Nj ???????? ???? neymarjr</a> (@neymarjr) on <time datetime="2018-03-14T17:57:00+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 14, 2018 at 10:57am PDT</time>
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He captioned the picture with one of &nbsp;Hawking&#39;s famous quotes: &quot;One has to have a positive attitude and must make the best of the situation that one finds oneself in.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/stephen-hawking-a-brief-history-of-genius-35758">Stephen Hawking</a> will be remembered as Britain&#39;s most famous modern-day scientist.

He spent most of his life was spent in a wheelchair crippled by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

ALS is is a form of motor neurone disease that attacks the nerves controlling voluntary movement.

He faced a major backlash on Twitter for his inappropriate behaviour.&nbsp;

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Always ask someone if you aren&rsquo;t sure about a social media post before posting it- Neymar edition. <a href="https://t.co/wks9jTVdGr">https://t.co/wks9jTVdGr</a>
&mdash; Caught Offside (@COsoccerpod) <a href="https://twitter.com/COsoccerpod/status/973992256343552018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Great to see Neymar drawing inspiration from Stephen Hawking as he adjusts to living his life with a sore ankle for a few weeks. <a href="https://t.co/VogGFNBI7j">https://t.co/VogGFNBI7j</a>
&mdash; Si Lloyd (@SmnLlyd5) <a href="https://twitter.com/SmnLlyd5/status/973995847812820992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Neymar there, with his sore metatarsal and sprained ankle, marking Stephen Hawking&#39;s death by cheerily comparing himself to quadriplegic Stephen Hawking ???? <a href="https://t.co/f9bkh5AEhb">pic.twitter.com/f9bkh5AEhb</a>
&mdash; Nooruddean (@BeardedGenius) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeardedGenius/status/973992727225520129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Brazilian striker Neymar Jr, currently struggling with metatarsal injury has been trolled online for his insensitive tribute to late Stephen Hawking

Brazilian striker Neymar Jr, currently struggling with metatarsal injury has been trolled online for his "insensitive" tribute to late Stephen Hawking, who died yesterday at the age of 76. Neymar shared a picture on social networking sites, featuring him in a bathing suit and sitting on a wheelchair. Você tem que ter uma atitude positiva e tirar o melhor da situação na qual se encontra. Stephen Hawking A post shared by Nj ???????? ???? neymarjr (@neymarjr) on Mar 14, 2018 at 10:57am PDT × He captioned the picture with one of Hawking's famous quotes: "One has to have a positive attitude and must make the best of the situation that one finds oneself in." Stephen Hawking will be remembered as Britain's most famous modern-day scientist. He spent most of his life was spent in a wheelchair crippled by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is is a form of motor neurone disease that attacks the nerves controlling voluntary movement. He faced a major backlash on Twitter for his inappropriate behaviour. Always ask someone if you aren’t sure about a social media post before posting it- Neymar edition. https://t.co/wks9jTVdGr — Caught Offside (@COsoccerpod) March 14, 2018 × Great to see Neymar drawing inspiration from Stephen Hawking as he adjusts to living his life with a sore ankle for a few weeks. https://t.co/VogGFNBI7j — Si Lloyd (@SmnLlyd5) March 14, 2018 × Neymar there, with his sore metatarsal and sprained ankle, marking Stephen Hawking's death by cheerily comparing himself to quadriplegic Stephen Hawking ???? pic.twitter.com/f9bkh5AEhb — Nooruddean (@BeardedGenius) March 14, 2018 ×

Neymar Jr pays tribute to Hawking, gets trolled

Neymar&#39;s broken foot and sprained ankle will keep him out of action for at least six weeks, his father said on Tuesday, but no decision has yet been made on whether surgery will be required to repair the damage.

The world&#39;s most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday&#39;s 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain&#39;s arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille and the Brazilian was in tears as he was carried off the pitch at Parc de Princes.

His father said the damage was such that Neymar would definitely miss next week&#39;s Champions League encounter against Real Madrid.

&quot;PSG know that they won&#39;t have Neymar in the next few games and that they won&#39;t have Neymar for the next six weeks at least,&quot; he told ESPN Brasil.

&quot;Because this treatment is going to take six to eight weeks, we know that, whether it is surgery or conventional, it will be six or eight weeks.&quot;

Neymar Senior said his son and the French club were waiting to see the Brazil&#39;s national team doctor before deciding whether or not the forward needed surgery.

Brazil&#39;s most important player in recent years, Neymar is a key part of the squad that will head to the World Cup finals in Russia in June.

&quot;They will decide together,&quot; Neymar Sr said. &quot;It is a difficult time for us. We don&#39;t want to be in this situation. But we have to accept it and help Neymar as best we can.&quot;

The comments made live on air to a sports talk show contradicted those of Paris St Germain manager Unai Emery, who had said the 26-year old could be ready for the season-defining clash against Madrid.

PSG trail Real 3-1 ahead of the last 16 second-leg game in Paris on March 6.

Neymar has scored 28 goals and provided 16 assists for PSG this season.

The world's most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday's 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain's arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille

Neymar's broken foot and sprained ankle will keep him out of action for at least six weeks, his father said on Tuesday, but no decision has yet been made on whether surgery will be required to repair the damage. The world's most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday's 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain's arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille and the Brazilian was in tears as he was carried off the pitch at Parc de Princes. His father said the damage was such that Neymar would definitely miss next week's Champions League encounter against Real Madrid. "PSG know that they won't have Neymar in the next few games and that they won't have Neymar for the next six weeks at least," he told ESPN Brasil. "Because this treatment is going to take six to eight weeks, we know that, whether it is surgery or conventional, it will be six or eight weeks." Neymar Senior said his son and the French club were waiting to see the Brazil's national team doctor before deciding whether or not the forward needed surgery. Brazil's most important player in recent years, Neymar is a key part of the squad that will head to the World Cup finals in Russia in June. "They will decide together," Neymar Sr said. "It is a difficult time for us. We don't want to be in this situation. But we have to accept it and help Neymar as best we can." The comments made live on air to a sports talk show contradicted those of Paris St Germain manager Unai Emery, who had said the 26-year old could be ready for the season-defining clash against Madrid. PSG trail Real 3-1 ahead of the last 16 second-leg game in Paris on March 6. Neymar has scored 28 goals and provided 16 assists for PSG this season.

Football: Neymar Jr out for six to eight weeks, says Neymar Sr

Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar suffered a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-striker-neymar-jr-suffers-metatarsal-fracture-34158">sprained right ankle</a> when he was stretchered off during a match on last Sunday. The suspected sprain is now confirmed as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-striker-neymar-jr-suffers-metatarsal-fracture-34158">metatarsal fracture</a>. With the game already as good as over, the stadium held its breath as he was treated and then carried away.

The chances of Neymar returning to fitness in time to face the reigning European champions now appear extremely slim and despite that, Real Madrid&#39;s coach Zinedine Zidane hoped Neymar would recover in time to play.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/metatarsal_bones01_-_superior_view-20180227030647.png" />
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The metatarsal bones. (Others)
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What is metatarsal bones? 
The metatarsal bones or metatarsus are a group of five long bones in the foot, located between the tarsal bones of the hind-end mid-foot and the phalanges of the toes. They also help in balancing while&nbsp;standing and walking.

What is a metatarsal fracture? 
A sudden blow or severe twist of the foot, or overuse, can cause a break fracture. Usually, the condition is associated with foot pain and the person suffering from it will find it difficult to walk. A swollen foot is fairly common and bruising is usually evident after a day or two.

These fractures are typically treated without surgery using a cast, boot or hard-soled shoe. These <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-striker-neymar-jr-suffers-metatarsal-fracture-34158">fractures</a> tend to heal within six to eight weeks.

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Metatarsal fractures tend to heal within six to eight weeks and the chances of Neymar's return in the second leg of Champions League are very slim

Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar suffered a sprained right ankle when he was stretchered off during a match on last Sunday. The suspected sprain is now confirmed as the metatarsal fracture. With the game already as good as over, the stadium held its breath as he was treated and then carried away. The chances of Neymar returning to fitness in time to face the reigning European champions now appear extremely slim and despite that, Real Madrid's coach Zinedine Zidane hoped Neymar would recover in time to play. The metatarsal bones. (Others) × What is metatarsal bones? The metatarsal bones or metatarsus are a group of five long bones in the foot, located between the tarsal bones of the hind-end mid-foot and the phalanges of the toes. They also help in balancing while standing and walking. What is a metatarsal fracture? A sudden blow or severe twist of the foot, or overuse, can cause a break fracture. Usually, the condition is associated with foot pain and the person suffering from it will find it difficult to walk. A swollen foot is fairly common and bruising is usually evident after a day or two. These fractures are typically treated without surgery using a cast, boot or hard-soled shoe. These fractures tend to heal within six to eight weeks.

What is metatarsal fracture that caused Neymar's exit

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