Neymar Jr, Thiago Silva, Coutinho and Dutch player Memphis Depay have raised concerns about the growing number of synthetic turf football pitches in Brazil.
By: News desk
The players have voiced their concerns in a number of social media messages on various platforms.
“It’s worrying to see the direction Brazilian soccer is taking. It’s absurd that we have to discuss synthetic turf on our fields. Objectively, with the size and representativeness of our soccer, this shouldn’t even be an option. The solution to a bad pitch is to make a good pitch, simple as that,” the players stated on their Instagram profiles.
Brazilian clubs have spent millions to sign up international stars like Memphis Depay and Neymar, while generating massive incomes from selling young talents like Endrick and Vitor Roque for massive transfer fees. Nevertheless, little has been done to improve playing conditions, including turf quality and training facilities.
Neymar made a comparison of the Brazilian league with European leagues: “In the most respected leagues in the world, the players are listened to and investments are made to ensure the quality of the pitch in the stadiums. It’s about offering quality for those who play and watch.” His words were echoed by the other players.
“If Brazil wants to play a leading role in the world soccer market, the first step should be to demand the quality of the pitch on which the players play and train.”
The players claim that investing in players alone will not be enough to elevate the league’s overall level. They also need high-quality playing surfaces and top-tier training conditions.