Pele believes Neymar’s decision to move to Barcelona last summer will pay dividends for Brazil at the World Cup.
The legendary three-time World Cup winner, now 73, added that he is concerned his country are not making the most of hosting the World Cup, but is sure everything will work out eventually.
“We have the opportunity for Brazil to progress and draw advantages with tourism, infrastructure and transport, but unfortunately nothing has happened about it,” Pele said.
Brazil staged last year’s Confederations Cup and as well as this year’s World Cup, will also be the host nation of the 2016 Olympics.
“The concern is mine and for all of us. I want everything to go well but unfortunately we have these problems.
“But there is still time to recover. I am confident that after four years of struggle we will do it.”
Neymar moved to Camp Nou from Santos, the same team Pele starred for between 1956 and 1974, and Pele feels the national team will reap the rewards of the transfer.
“He is our child and a wonderful young man who had the chance to go to Barcelona, and it’ll be very good for Brazil,” Pele said.
“Neymar is getting a very important experience there.”
