Santos FC forward Neymar has apologised after slapping teenage teammate Robinho Jr during a training session, admitting he crossed a line in the incident.
The clash happened during a routine training exercise at the club's facility. Details of what sparked the physical confrontation remain unclear, but Neymar acknowledged his actions were wrong.
"I crossed the line," Neymar said in his apology, taking responsibility for the slap. The forward, one of Santos' biggest talents, did not make excuses for his behaviour during the session with the younger player.
Robinho Jr, son of former Brazil international Robinho, was training with the first team squad when the incident occurred. The teenager plays in Santos' youth development programme and has been training alongside senior players.
The apology comes after the incident drew attention within the club and among observers of Brazilian football. Neymar's willingness to publicly acknowledge the mistake suggests the two players have moved past the confrontation, though the exact circumstances that led to the physical contact remain undisclosed.
Neither Neymar nor the club has provided further details about whether any disciplinary action followed the incident. Santos has not issued an official statement regarding the matter.
