Betinho Talentos, the coach who found the Brazilian star and was instrumental in his football career, has received an emotional appreciation from Neymar.
Longtime Santos coach Talentos passed away on Saturday; however, the reason of death has not been made public.
Neymar posted an emotional comment along with a picture of himself as a little youngster with Betinho on Instagram.
“You forced me run in multiple stadiums throughout the world after you spotted me jogging in the stands,” he wrote.
“You forced my parents to take me to my first tryout and signed me up for soccer.” For that, I will always be thankful! Look out for us up there. Professor BETINHO, may you rest in peace.
In 2004, Betinho brought Neymar into Santos’ development system after discovering him.
Neymar became one of football’s most gifted players under his tutelage. He made his senior debut in 2009 before rising to international fame and playing a significant role in the history of the Brazilian national team.
After recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, Neymar is currently sidelined with Al-Hilal because of an injury he received in October.
It is unclear when he will be fully fit again.