Ronaldo sees Neymar progress

Ronaldo has backed compatriot Neymar to be a success at the World Cup, for what he is learning this season with Barcelona.

The Selecao’s main striking hope last summer moved out to the Catalans in a €57m transfer from Santos and, according to his country’s second highest all-time goalscorer, is doing well.

“Neymar was only young when he left here for Europe, but it goes without saying that he’s going to learn a lot there,” Ronaldo has considered this week in an interview with FIFA’s official website.

“You’re playing with the very best in the world in Europe and you’re always learning. You have to stand out among the best and you’re always looking to improve.

“I’m convinced he’s going to become the greatest player in the world and competing in Europe will go a long way to helping him achieve that.

“I really like the way he’s going about things at Barcelona. He’s playing well, he’s tactically aware and he’s really involved, which all means he’s going to be bringing even more to the Brazil team.”

Ronaldo has overseen his home country’s hosting of the World Cup, as a member of the Management Board of the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

Ahead of this evening’s group stage draw, the 98-capped 37-year-old mused on the possibilities for next summer.

“Starting the competition in one of the weaker groups could be a good thing, but I don’t think the Brazil team needs to sit there hoping for a weak group or a strong one.

“They showed at the Confederations Cup that they have a very strong side and that they’re the red hot favourites to win the World Cup.

“Brazil are top of my list of favourites. Then come Germany, followed by Spain and Argentina. Argentina could spring a nasty surprise. Have you thought about Argentina winning here in Brazil?”

Brazil are under scrutiny for their preparations for the tournament, with three stadiums due to miss the end-of-year completion deadline, with Sao Paulo's Arena Corinthians, where a crane collapsed last week killing two people, only due to be ready in mid-April.

“I think the Brazil team is ready. We’re organised and know exactly what we have to do. We are ready to deliver the greatest World Cup of all time.

“There are still a few months to go before the competition starts and we have a lot of work to do to get everything in the best possible shape.

“I can tell you, though, that Brazil will be putting on a show on and off the pitch.”

There is also concern over the climate in the country, with 1pm local time kick-offs for some games.

"FIFA has a big committee of doctors, fitness trainers and Coaches who’ve made their views known on the subject.

“The World Cup has been played in hot weather before. Just look at the USA. I was there and we played at the same time.”

Tags Brazil Neymar Ronaldo World Cup 2014
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