Brazilian play maker Neymar has defended his off the field escapades which has got many people talking about him.
Neymar defends his 'party' life
The 24-year-old who has been named in the country’s Olympic soccer team has been criticised by many for a life they fear will affect his performance, especially as his country aims for gold at the summer games.
“I think you have to start by looking at what I do on the pitch. My personal things; the moment I am off the field, no matter what, it’s my personal time,” he said at a press briefing.
Brazil has never won gold in soccer at the Olympics even though it has won the World Cup five times.
But Neymar says his delivery should be judged by what he does on the field and not off it.
“Independent of everything else, you should call me out for what I do on the pitch, like if it’s about the cards, there’s no issue for you holding me to that. But I have a personal life,” he said.
Neymar who was not released by his club to play for his country in the Copa America tournament, was pictured hanging out with some Hollywood celebrities in the US, where he had gone to visit his team mates during the tournament.
“I’m a 24-year-old guy, wanting to be young. I’ve got my accomplishments, my things. And I’m comfortable with all of that. You can criticize me. I’ve made some mistakes too. I am not a perfect man, but I also like to go out and have fun with my friends, “ he said in defence of his actions.