Dani Alves has asserted that in the future, it will be too hard to distinguish between Lionel Messi and Neymar for who is the best in the world.
Neymar has just joined Messi at Barcelona, prompting discussion over the two working together in attack from next season.
For Alves, the situation will bring the best out of his young compatriot.
“To be the best, first of all one has to have humility and I know that ‘Ney’ does,” enthused the full-back to reporters today.
“I’m sure that in the future, it will be difficult to choose between the best in the world, between Neymar and Messi.
“Ney knows what is required if he wants to win the same number of Ballon d’Ors as Messi.”
Alves also looked to reflect to the gathered Brazilian media of the disproportionate amount of expectation Neymar has on his shoulders when it comes to the national team.
“Today the weight of the team falls on Neymar, at player who is just 21. That weight cannot be carried by Neymar alone.
“The Brazilian team is giving too much for Neymar to bear.
“Those who have more experience in the team have to be responsible, both positively and negatively, and try to distribute the weight.
“It’s pretty much like we do at Barcelona, where Messi makes the difference but the responsibility is split between us all.”
