Messi is Neymar’s ‘idol’

Lionel Messi is the reason Neymar is at Barcelona and the Argentine forward is his 'idol', according to the 24-year-old's father.

Neymar joined Barca from Brazilian side Santos in 2013 and quickly formed an attacking understanding with Messi, with their attacking threat propelling the club to two La Liga titles, a Champions League, two Copa Del Reys and a World Club Cup so far.

"We all know who Messi is and what he means. He is the idol of my son and for him is a pleasure being at his side," Neymar Senior told Cope.

"He is always happy for playing together and he is playing here for Messi.

"If Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo never existed probably Neymar never existed too; the same with Pele and Maradona, both inspired a lot of players."

Tags Lionel Messi Neymar
La Liga - Club News