Thiago Mendes has been sent death threats by Neymar’s fans after his tackle left the Paris Saint-Germain superstar injured.
The Lyon midfielder was retrospectively handed a red card after a VAR review in the 1-0 victory at the Parc des Princes, with Tino Kadewere scoring the only goal.
The Brazilian forward was left rolling on the turf in agony, before eventually being stretchered off, with initial fears he had suffered a long-term injury, though scans have now confirmed the problem should only keep him out for a few games at most.
READ MORE: PSG report ‘reassuring’ news on Neymar injury but Brazilian forward must wait for full diagnosis
But there has been a hostile reaction from Neymar’s supporters, according to Mendes’ wife Kelly, who has revealed the stress caused by numerous abuse messages and death threats, one of which was recited to CNEWS: “For your boyfriend's actions, if anything happens to Neymar, you will pay with your life. You and your family, one by one.”
The couple have now informed the police to assist, with the potential for legal action if necessary.
Neymar’s father has failed to ease tensions, publicly sharing his outrage at his son receiving another aggressive challenge.
“F***… how much longer? We have spoken about this so much, we have so underlined the excess of violence,” Neymar Sr wrote on Instagram.
“We are not taking the necessary measures throughout the entire match, during which Neymar was the victim of a dozen fouls, always violent ones. This encourages these type of players and attitudes.”
Mendes will now miss tonight’s Ligue 1 match against Brest at Parc Olympique Lyonnais, with Rudi Garcia’s side tied at the top of the table with Lille.
