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Hours After Breaking Pele’s 52YO Record, Neymar Branded “His Own Worst Enemy” by MLS Legend, Condemning Al Hilal Star’s ‘Decisions’

Published 09/10/2023, 1:52 PM EDT

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In the realm of soccer history, where legends are born and their records etched in stone, Neymar Jr. recently engraved his name in the annals of Brazilian folklore. Just hours after breaking Pele’s 52-year-old record for the most goals scored in the yellow and green jersey, Neymar’s name echoed through stadiums. But as the world celebrated his remarkable achievement, an unexpected voice emerged from the soccer fraternity, raising questions about the Brazilian superstar’s off-field decisions.

In a candid assessment, the former MLS legend claimed Neymar Jr. as “his own worst enemy,” raising important questions about the choices that have shaped his illustrious career.

Neymar’s talent is undeniable, but his ‘off-field behavior’ has impacted his career, claims MLS Legend

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Neymar’s extraordinary talents have never been in question. From dazzling dribbles to sublime goals, he has exhibited skills that place him among the world’s elite. Yet, in a conversation with ESPN FC, former Venezuelan soccer player, and 3x MLS winner, Ale Moreno pointed out the choices and decisions Neymar Jr. makes off the field.

Moreno said that Neymar’s off-field behavior has had a negative impact on his career.“When Neymar’s at his best, there is no defender in the world that can stop him,” Moreno said.

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“He’s the only one that stops himself. Not because of talent, but because of the choices that he makes off the field,” he added.

Ale Moreno’s assessment resonates with a sentiment shared by many pundits and enthusiasts. Neymar’s career has been peppered with controversies and has at times, overshadowed his immense talent. Moreno stated that due to his off-court shenanigans, his performance has had an impact.

“It’s not about on-field performance, it’s the off-field behavior and off-field choices that he has made. It now has an impact and affected his on-field performances. Therefore, we have to continue to address it.” Moreno added.

Moreno acknowledged that Neymar is one of the most talented players in the world, but he said that he needs to change his ways if he wants to achieve his full potential.

Neymar needs to change his ways if he wants to prove himself as a Brazilian legend

Breaking Pele’s long-standing record is a monumental achievement that Neymar will cherish for a lifetime, but it comes with a caveat – the world wants to see more. His record-breaking goal was a moment to celebrate, but it is also a reminder that the Brazilian superstar has some work to do if he wants to achieve his full potential. As the Brazilian star continues his quest for trophies and glory, the choices he makes will define his legacy.

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via Reuters

Moreno’s comments are just the latest in a long line of criticism that Neymar has faced, and it is clear that the Brazilian needs to change his ways if he wants to silence his critics.

Only time will tell if Neymar will heed Moreno’s advice. However, if he wants to be considered one of the all-time greats, he better star

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Written by:

Sahil Sharma

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Sahil Sharma is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. He's been a fan since childhood, but his love for the sport truly took off when Real Madrid won their record 10th UEFA Champions League title in 2014. That famous La Decima triumph turned him into a hardcore Madridista.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra