Neymar and Memphis Slam Brazil FA for Banning Skill Move

Neymar and Memphis Depay have criticized the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) decision to penalize players for standing on the ball with both feet. The rule now results in a yellow card and indirect free-kick. Neymar called football boring, while Depay argued the rule distracts from more important issues like serious fouls and officiating standards.

After being the face of flair and creativity in football, Neymar has expressed frustration over a new rule introduced by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) that penalizes a classic skill move. The CBF has informed all domestic league clubs that any player standing on the ball with both feet will now receive a yellow card, and the opposing team will be awarded an indirect free kick. The rule was introduced under the claim that the move risks injury, disrupts gameplay, and is considered provocative and disrespectful to opponents.

Neymar took to Instagram to voice his displeasure, stating that “football is getting more and more boring.” Memphis Depay also criticized the rule, especially after he used the move in the Campeonato Paulista final against Palmeiras, which sparked on-field tensions. Following his team's 3-0 victory over Vasco da Gama, Depay said referees should focus on serious issues like missed fouls rather than outlawing harmless pieces of skill.

The decision has sparked debate among fans and players alike, with many arguing that such flair is part of Brazil’s football identity. Both Neymar and Depay believe football should be played not just with the feet, but also with intelligence and creativity, and called for better decision-making from football authorities.