Neymar has hit back at suggestions that he showboated during Barcelona’s 3-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday.
The Brazilian’s flick over Unai Bustinza in the latter stages generated a furious response from Los Leones, namely their captain Andoni Iraola, but he insists he will not change his playing style, even if it “annoys” his opponents.
“I’m very happy [about the double]. I’m very happy for everything we’ve done and I congratulate the team for the game,” he said after the game.
“We feel fine physically. Controlling the game has always been our [trademark] and we have to continue doing that until the end [of the season].
“[Lionel Messi] is spectacular. He’s a superstar and, for me, the best player in the world, and it’s an honour to be part of this team, with players of this quality.
“[On Athletic’s complaints about his perceived showboating], it’s football and these things can happen.
“[Their response] was incredible. They might have been annoyed, but [the flick] represents my style of play and I’ve been doing it for years.
“I won’t change my playing style, just because it annoys others.
“[On the treble], we must remain calm. We’ve just won the double and [the Champions League final] is still a week away.”
