Neymar has reflected on the ‘new experience’ being at Barcelona is and assured that his relationship with Lionel Messi is ‘great’.
The €57m signing from Santos this summer took Thursday’s Press conference after training and reflected on how his first week at his new club has gone.
“This is a new experience for me. I am excited to be with my teammates, with the Coach and happy to be here,” explained Neymar through an interpreter.
“I have met them all and it is better than I expected. I am very happy. It’s a dream. I look around and see Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Puyol.
“My role? It is still too early. I’m trying to adapt as quickly as possible. Barcelona’s game is very fast, they are the best in the world and I’m making an effort to adjust.
“After the tonsillectomy I lost some weight. I’m getting better every day that passes, I’m training hard to be better physically.
“I am prepared to help my teammates through either scoring goals or assisting others. The important thing will be to help the team.
“Martino is a great Coach. I have spoken with him every day, as have all the players, he is a great Coach and this is a great opportunity for me.
“I want to send my support to Tito Vilanova. I spoke with him at first, although I am not working with him.”
The 21-year-old was pressed for how things are going with Lionel Messi too.
“The relationship with Messi is great, I’m sure there will be no problem. He is an idol for me, he is the best in the world and I am here to help.
“I respect him a lot, he is a great persona and I’m sure we will be fine.”
The Brazilian will face former side Santos this Friday in the Joan Gamper Trophy in what will also be his Camp Nou debut.
“I always play with the same desire, whether it is an official game or not, as if it were the Champions League Final.
“It will be special because I will be playing against my ex-teammates with whom I have great affection, but I will defend Barelona with pride.
“Will I celebrate any goals scored? It will be different, but I will play as I have always played.
“I have considered it and I will celebrate if I score. I hope so, it will be special.”
Neymar was asked who he takes inspiration from in Barcelona’s past.
“Romario, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho have been great players at this club. Hopefully I will enter into the history here too.”
