Sometimes I do exaggerate playacting, admits Neymar Jr.
What's the story
Brazilian superstar Neymar, who faced widespread criticism for his theatrics on the field at the FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia, has opened up about the same. In a message to fans via an advertisement, Neymar admitted that he, sometimes, exaggerate playacting after being fouled. The Paris Saint-Germain star accepted the criticism and promised to pick himself up.
Claim
Neymar pledges to become a better man
The video was published, on Sunday, across several Brazilian TV networks. The former Barcelona player stated in the advertisement that, "You may think I exaggerate. And sometimes I do exaggerate. But the truth is I suffer on the pitch." Neymar did not have a productive World Cup, as Brazil were knocked out in the quarters by Belgium. He pledged to become a better man.
Views
Neymar had earlier brushed off claims
Neymar's theatrics, after a foul, went on to become the center of discussion with the player, often, seen playacting during the event in Russia. As per broadcaster RTS, he wasted almost 14 minutes, after falling to the ground and looking for a foul. Last week, the player had shot back at allegations against him of playacting. He scored only two goals in World Cup.
Neymar
A look at Neymar's performance in the World Cup
Brazil went in as pre-tournament favorites, but once again fell down against European opposition. The South American giants never quite managed to soar to heights expected and talisman Neymar did not have a solid campaign. He scored 2 goals in his 27 attempts. The player also made one assist. Brazil needed him more than ever to guide their campaign, but Neymar couldn't rise.
Promise
Neymar promises to pick himself up
The 26-year-old was seen pledging to become a new man at the end of the advertisement. "I took long to accept your criticism. I took long to look at myself in the mirror and become a new man," Neymar said. He also asked the fans to make a choice between throwing stones at him or helping him stand.