Filipe Luis has insisted that Neymar “doesn't take anyone for a joke” after warning Atletico Madrid of the Barcelona forward's threat for Saturday.
The Brazilian came under scrutiny for his perceived showboating against Athletic Bilbao in last season's Copa del Rey final, but his countryman maintains no malice should be read into his flamboyant nature on the pitch.
“I trained with the team [on Wednesday] and the feeling was good,” the left-back said at a Press conference.
“The aim was to get up to speed, so I'll be available [for selection] in principle. Now, it's up to whether the Coach wants to use me or not.
“It'll be a tough match as it's still early in the season and lots of players have only just returned from international duty.
“There's always an exciting atmosphere at the Calderon. Barcelona will have the majority of the game and possession, so we'll try to defend strongly and do damage on the break.
“Their matches almost always depend on how they perform because they have some amazing players, but we'll try to do our best.
“Barcelona were able to win all the trophies on offer last season and their squad remain almost the same.
“They have many options, even though they've lost some players, and remain favourites for every game.
“We have the advantage of playing at home. It's important and they know it. It'll be a tough and intense game, but we're in great form, playing with confidence, and that's the way forward.
“Obviously, everyone wants to play these types of games. You have to give your all because otherwise it shows.
“[Lionel] Messi, Neymar, Luis Suarez … We must be very attentive, although it'll be very difficult to stop them.
“My last game against Barca was when we won the League. I've not lost against them much, but that doesn't mean anything. I'll try to contribute my bit.
"I don't think there's any revenge. Every game is a different story. Barcelona won everything last season but nothing the campaign before.
“Every season is different, but we know how to defend and attack.
“Perhaps [his playing style] isn't very common in Spain, but I've known him since he started at Santos and he's always played in the same manner.
“He doesn't take anyone for a joke. There's no getting around him, so you have to try stopping him. He runs, shoots and scores.
“[Jackson Martinez and Luciano Vietto] are doing well. Jackson's a great striker, very strong and holds the ball up.
“We'll do very well with him and [Fernando] Torres up front. Vietto has a lot of quality between the lines.
“They're the kind of players who succeed at the Calderon. They are not afraid to play and, little by little, are improving.”
