The article discusses the ongoing debate about Neymar's place in the Brazilian national football team, following a comment from Idelber Avelar who described supporters of Neymar's inclusion as part of a 'mad circus.' The author, who identifies as part of this group, expresses disagreement with Avelar's choice of words for its disrespectful connotation toward mental health. They emphasize that while performance statistics are often debated in sports, they do not always tell the complete story of a player's contribution, suggesting that Neymar's unique skills go beyond mere numbers.

Additionally, the author argues against the reliance on statistics to gauge a player's value, pointing out the exceptions in football, where the artistry and intuition of players often transcend quantifiable metrics. With a nod to younger players like Rayan Cherki and Lamine Yamal, the author highlights the growing acknowledgement of creativity and playfulness in football, which traditional stats may undervalue. This lends a broader context to the discussion around Neymar's contribution, hinting at a shift in how talent might be appreciated across different generations.

Ultimately, the piece challenges the idea that numerical evidence should dictate player selection, advocating instead for a more nuanced understanding of a player's impact on the game. It reinforces a cultural perspective where personal artistry and enjoyment of the sport are seen as equally valid considerations in the conversation about who should represent Brazil on the international stage.