Santos coach Muricy Ramalho has responded to the criticisms of Pelé directed at his star forward Neymar this week, describing the comments as something “positive" for the youngster.
Pelé caused uproar in Brazil earlier this week by stating that his junior was too concerned by “fashion and hairstyles", rather than focussing on improving his football.
The comments provoked a mixed reaction from players past and present, with some backing Pelé and others choosing to defend Neymar against “O Rei".
Ramalho, though, was not inclined to choose sides in the argument, instead insisting that the comments could be viewed as constructive criticism from someone who had experienced all the pressure that Neymar now faces.
“First we need to look at where the criticisms are from," Muricy told reporters. “He [Pelé] is the Athlete of the Century, he has a great history at Santos and abroad and he has the experience to help people improve.
“When he speaks, it"s for the person"s own good. Sometimes it seems critical, but it isn"t. It"s good that people like Pelé do this for Neymar. It"s natural coming from them and we take it as constructive criticism."
Source: Globo Esporte
