Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has confirmed an altercation took place between him, teammate Marquinhos, and sporting director Luis Campos.
The incident happened following PSG’s 3-1 defeat against Monaco at the weekend, their fourth loss since the turn of the year.
According to reports in France, Campos stormed into the team’s dressing room, accusing the players of lacking aggression, but some took exception to his intervention.
Neymar was quizzed on the situation at PSG’s press conference ahead of their game against Bayern Munich at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night.
The 31-year-old Brazil international was seen smiling, before embarking on a three minute monologue.
“It has happened,” he said. “We didn’t agree with what was being said at that time, so we had a discussion about it. I speak to my friends every day, and I love all of them. It is like that with my girlfriend as well.
“We talk about football, all of us. Football is about communicating. Of course, there is respect on both sides, and sometimes you don’t agree on things. So there might be a discussion to improve the team, the atmosphere, our play.
“We have lost a few games and we are frustrated about that. We want to win all the time. When those defeats come around, it hurts, so discussions are part of that. That can help us improve as a team. I think it has helped because we cleared things up. We know what we are all thinking.
Most read in Football
“In terms of blocking things like that in the dressing room, sometimes there are things that get into the press, and they can go viral very quickly. When there is information like that, we are angry. It is my sixth season here at PSG and it is difficult. Sometimes things have come out at important moments, like before a final. But I don’t know what was going on.
“As a player and a teammate here, that doesn’t just affect me, it affects everyone and the coach. We have to work out what is happening. Things in the dressing room shouldn’t come out. That is sad. There are things that need to be resolved internally and not out on the street.
“You do that with your friends and family, and team-mates. You are with everyone from day to day. We have to stay together, so it’s annoying those things come out. I am sure there will be more in the future. That is all part of football.”
The French champions are continually plagued with stories surrounding the futures of their stars.
Speculation over Lionel Messi continues with his future up in the air, while reports last year reveal tension between Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
“I feel good,” Neymar said, despite having netted just one Ligue 1 goal since the World Cup restart.
“There have been certain games that have not gone well but I always tried to do everything I can. I have been a professional for 15 years now, I know how it works. Situations happen and criticism is valid. Everyone has an opinion. I respect that.
“But I will play the game the way I know, giving everything for the team. I will keep doing that.’
He added: “We have that ability as a team. I have a lot of belief in myself. I know what I am capable of. I am also very humble. This is an important game and I’m confident we can turn in a good performance. We know what we need to do.”
talkSPORT BET Euro 2024 Offers
Offer 1: Completely free £5 bet for Euro 2024 – No Deposit Needed
18+ New customers only. Opt in, get £5 free bet on selected markets. Available for first 5000 customers only. Bonus expires in 24h after registration. T&Cs apply, GambleAware.org Please gamble responsibly
Offer 2: Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets
18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile & bet £10+ on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 6x £5 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments & Apple Pay only. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly