In a recent interview with international sports media, Neymar surprised public opinion with unexpected statements about the Barcelona Club Football. The former Blaugrana player said that current Barça is much stronger than the team in which he shared costumes with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, one of the most feared offensive trios in the history of modern football. These words have generated a great debate between fans and experts, who still recall the golden age of the South American trident.
During his stage at Barça between 2013 and 2017, Neymar was a fundamental part of the team that conquered numerous titles, including the Champions League in 2015. That offensive trio, known as the “MSN”, scored goals at an impressive rhythm and took the club to the top of European football. However, Neymar argues that the current Barcelona squad has more balance, youth and future projection than that legendary team.
“Obviously it was a magical stage to play with Messi and Suárez. I learned a lot and we lived unforgettable moments. But Barça today has a different energy. They are more tactically organized and have a group of young people with incredible potential. I am convinced that they will win the Champions League next season,” Neymar said safely.
What most caught the attention of his statements was the direct praise to a particular player, although he did not reveal his name immediately. Later in the interview, he confirmed that he spoke of Lamine Yamal, the young prodigy who has captivated the fans culé with his huge talent. Neymar did not hesitate to praise him openly: “Lamine’s skills are even better than mine at her age. It has impressive maturity, makes decisions with intelligence and has a technical quality that makes it unique.”
Social networks soon react. Barça fans celebrated Neymar’s words as a deserved recognition to Xavi Hernández and the sports project that is building the club. On the other hand, some followers of the old guard were skeptical, considering that it is too early to compare this new generation with the golden age of Messi, Iniesta, Suárez, Busquets and company.
The truth is that Neymar’s statements have put the focus on current Barcelona, which has been showing a promising evolution in LaLiga and European competitions. With young players such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Fermín and the experience of figures such as Ter Stegen and Lewandowski, the Catalan club seems to be recovering their football identity.
We will have to wait if Brazilian’s words become prophecy or simply remain a gesture of support to their former team. What is undeniable is that the current Barça has aroused a new illusion in its fans, and with praise like Neymar’s, the expectation for the next season does not stop growing.
