The thrashing at Morumbi was the toughest defeat of the Brazilian star's career, who couldn't hide his anguish over the difficult moment for the club of his dreams
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Santos experienced a dark day that will go down in the history books. The 6-0 defeat against Vasco da Gamaat Morumbi Stadium not only set a negative record for the club (the worst home defeat in its history in the Brasileirao), but it also marked the hardest fall in Neymar's career. Until then, the Brazilian star had suffered defeats by up to four goals, but never by six.
Visibly affected, Neymar left the field in tears after the final whistle. "I'm totally disappointed with our performance. You have every right to protest, but without violence, although you do have the right to insult. It's a feeling of great shame. I had never experienced this in my life," said the forward, who is seeking to regain ground in Carlo Ancelotti's national team.
The image of the idol crying, comforted by Fernando Diniz, Vasco's coach and former Brazil national team manager, became the symbol of one of the greatest humiliations in history, which also leaves the team in 15th place in the standings, just two points above relegation.
The repercussions were immediate. The club announced the termination of coach Cleber Xavier's contract minutes after the match. "It was a completely out-of-the-ordinary defeat. This will bring some changes, such as Cleber's departure, and we're grateful," said Alexandre Mattos, Santos's sporting director, who described what happened as a "tragedy."
Cleber Xavier fue despido tras la goleada
Amid the pain, Neymar posted a message on social media that summed up the fans' feelings: "Santos doesn't deserve this." He also shared an emotional message of support from his son Davi Lucca: "I want you to know that in these difficult times and when no one is by your side, I'll always be here to support you. You're my inspiration."
The management is already considering replacements. The main candidate is Jorge Sampaoli, who is without a club and living in Rio de Janeiro, while Juan Pablo Vojvoda, recently released from Fortaleza, also appears on the list, although with less likelihood of accepting the challenge.
Sampaoli y Vojvoda son los candidatos para asumir en Santos
