Shock: "Neymar slapped my cheek"... Son of 2007-born Jovinho files assault lawsuit, Brazil in uproar; "Santos contract termination also in play..."

*This content was translated by AI.

Superstar Neymar (34, Santos) came under fire for assaulting a younger teammate during training. The victim is Jovinho Junior (19), son of Jovinho (42), who once played for AC Milan and Real Madrid.

Italy's Gianluca Di Marzio reported on the 5th (Korea time) that "a verbal altercation during a Santos training session escalated into an assault, leading Jovinho Junior to file a lawsuit against Neymar."

The incident occurred on the 3rd at Santos' training ground, CT Hei Pelé. According to Brazil's Globo Esporte, the two players got into a dispute during training, which quickly turned into a physical fight. In the process, Neymar made insulting remarks to Jovinho Junior, born in 2007, and slapped his cheek.

The media reported that "Jovinho Junior's legal team has formally demanded a thorough investigation and appropriate disciplinary action from the club," adding that "Jovinho Junior is currently considering terminating his contract with the club."

As the situation escalated, the Santos club immediately took action. The club issued an official statement saying, "In accordance with the board's decision, we have launched an internal investigation to clarify the incident between the two players," and added, "The club's legal team will oversee the investigation."

The Santos club plans to ascertain the exact details of the incident and make a final decision within a few days. Depending on the investigation results, the club may impose severe disciplinary action on Neymar.

Meanwhile, Neymar, now 34, remains in top form. Despite frequent injuries last season, he appeared in 28 matches, scoring 11 goals and providing 4 assists, helping Santos avoid relegation. This season, he has recorded 3 goals and 2 assists in 6 league matches.

Recently, rumors circulated about a potential move to MLS club Cincinnati. The UK outlet The Athletic recently reported that Cincinnati is in preliminary discussions with Neymar's side regarding an MLS transfer.

The media stated, "These discussions are still in the early stages. The Cincinnati club is assessing Neymar's level of interest and his demands while internally reviewing whether signing a global superstar is a viable move."

According to the media, Cincinnati is confident that the club's immense financial strength and state-of-the-art facilities will be attractive elements for a star player like Neymar. The club has previously demonstrated its intention to attract star players by making contact with U.S. national team players such as Weston McKennie and Josh Sargent.

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*This content was translated by AI.