Lionel Messi’s fallout with Barcelona remains one of football’s most controversial chapters. Former vice-president Jordi Mestre has now revealed that Messi was “very, very angry” with club president Joan Laporta over how his exit was handled and wanted Neymar to be brought back after his world-record sale to Paris Saint-Germain. Mestre's revelations shed further light on the internal tensions that defined a turbulent Barca era.

Neymar, who is nursing another injury at present, was brutally trolled by a domestic rival in the Brazilian top-flight while watching Santos suffer a potentially damaging defeat to Vitoria. Matheuzinho registered the only goal of the game in that contest, and took to breaking out Neymar’s iconic goal celebration after hitting the net. Brazil’s all-time leading scorer was left less than impressed in the crowd.

Former Brazil manager Emerson Leao has launched a fierce attack on Neymar, calling him “not an example to anyone” and claiming the forward is “past his prime”. Leao criticised the 33-year-old's lifestyle, fitness and declining form, reigniting debate over the Santos star’s place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup plans.

Neymar is seeing his contract run down at Santos, meaning that another new challenge early in 2026 is being speculated on. With next summer's World Cup to think about, and Brazil hoping to secure a first global crown since 2002, Neymar is seeing a return to European football discussed. Italian giants Inter have, however, distanced themselves from the Samba superstar.

Santos have reportedly paused contract renewal talks with Neymar amid growing concerns over his fitness and high wages. The 33-year-old forward has missed significant time through injury this year. Despite the excellent relationship between Neymar and the club, officials want to reassess the situation before committing to an extension as his current contract runs until December.