Everyone thinks they know why Neymar 'got himself sent off' for Paris Saint-Germain last night
Neymar received a red card in Paris Saint-Germain's 2-1 victory over Strasbourg, with supporters already developing a crazy theory online.
Christophe Galtier's side returned to Ligue 1 action for the first time since the World Cup's conclusion on Wednesday evening.
PSG took the lead through Marquinhos in the first half, but his own goal nine minutes after the break brought Strasbourg level.
Neymar let his frustrations get the better of him just past the hour mark. He received a booking after committing a foul, then a second a minute later after diving in an attempt to win a penalty.
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The Brazil superstar protested to referee Clement Turpin with his teammates, but to no avail. He trudged off the Parc des Princes turf, knowing he'll have to serve a one-match ban.
It's a blow to PSG, given Lionel Messi is still absent after leading Argentina to World Cup glory. All the responsibility lies on Kylian Mbappe's shoulders, although he won't mind.
Mbappe scored the winning penalty in the dying embers to extend PSG's lead at the top of Ligue 1 to eight points.
The reigning champions face second-place Lens on New Year's Day in the late kick-off. This is where things get interesting.
Fans think Neymar purposely received his marching orders so he could celebrate New Year's Eve without having to play a game the next day.
In 2020, the 30-year-old denied rumours he hosted a five-day celebration at his home amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Neymar instead posted an image of himself enjoying a meal at home to ring in the new year. He's not getting the benefit of the doubt as to why he was sent off on social media, though.
One person said: "You can't fool me, Neymar. I'm familiar with your game."
Another tweeted: "Neymar definitely wants the new year off. He's just like me."
Someone said: "Boss turn on the private jet, I'm heading out."
While a fourth put: "He's not even making it sus anymore."
Galtier defended Neymar in his post-match interview despite the dismissal. He admitted the winger simulated contact but felt his first booking was harsh, given the constant fouling from Strasbourg players.
He told reporters per Goal: "I expected a difficult match. Strasbourg was able to prepare. There was a lot of impact. They are a team that plays well but gives off a lot of strength and power.
"I regret that sometimes the excess commitment was not sanctioned more severely on my players, which generated a little frustration for Neymar."
"I can understand the simulation, I have reviewed the images and there is simulation. It deserves a yellow card. But I find that his first yellow is still very severe compared to the number of fouls suffered by Neymar, and not small fouls."
Daniel Marland