After the Brazilian FA (CBF) implemented a contentious new rule that forbids players from performing a particular skill move during games, Neymar was one of the players who responded strongly. After Memphis Depay recently started a fight by climbing on top of the ball, the remedy was implemented.
In a March Campeonato Paulista match against Palmeiras, Memphis, a 31-year-old former Manchester United and Barcelona player who joined Brazilian team Corinthians in September 2024, stood on the ball with both feet. To prevent a recurrence, the CBF has now taken action.
According to a CBF letter to club presidents, “With our best regards, we would like to take this opportunity to address a prominent issue in Brazilian and South American football that, in theory, has a negative impact on our sport,” the Mirror reports.
“This is the result of a certain behaviour that has disrupted the game environment, led to several altercations, and seriously harmed the sport’s reputation, which has a big national and worldwide following.
“In order to provoke the other team, a player steps on the ball with both feet in this scenario. Along with the possibility of the player getting hurt, this feature causes major disruptions during games.
Referees have been told by the CBF to give the opposition an indirect free kick if they replicate Memphis’ tactic. A yellow card will also be given to players who disregard the new regulation.
The skill move in question is demonstrated in the video that follows. Although it’s simple to see why the CBF thinks that prohibiting the manoeuvre will lessen the likelihood of future fights of this nature, not everyone agrees with the ruling.
Memphis Depay and Neymar React to Rule Change
Both footballers have made their feelings clear
“So I really went to Brazil to also experience Jogo Bonita first hand but now the CBF announced yesterday that no player can’t stand on the ball or the player will receive a yellow card,” Memphis wrote on X (previously Twitter) following the announcement. After I briefly balanced on the ball during the Paulista Cup final, the decision was made.
“I don’t see the problem here, not that it is a particularly significant one in football. Brazilian football is improving and should be seen all around the world! This place is full of talented people. There should be no restrictions on our ability to express ourselves on the pitch with joy and enthusiasm.
“So, I’m curious in the appearance of the CBF board. Who is making decisions about this stunning football nation’s future? Instead of these pointless statements, let’s concentrate on the regulations that might enhance the game and the commercial aspects of football that benefit the teams, players, and supporters.”
Neymar, a Brazilian sensation who is currently back with his boyhood team Santos, posted the following on Instagram:
“Football is becoming increasingly dull.” Too much whining.
Being one of the most skilled football players in history, Neymar obviously believes that prohibiting specific skill manoeuvres, whether or not they annoy opponents, is a surefire method to reduce the spectacle value of football.
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