BRAZIL’S Neymar said that Paris-Saint German team-mate Kylian Mbappe has the potential to become one of the best players in the history.
In an exclusive interview with FIFA.com, Neymar who turned 28 on Wednesday, said, ” To have him as a team-mate at PSG is a huge honour. We understand one another very well on the pitch and off it too. I love him!”
FIFA.com caught up with Neymar to discuss Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League chances, Lionel Messi and, of course, Brazil as their bid to land at the 2022 FIFA World Cup approaches lift-off.
Excerpts:
You got injured on the eve of the Copa America but you chose to passionately support the team at every game. Can you tell us about this decision?
Neymar: It was really difficult to be out of the Copa America because of everything I went through. I did my recuperation in Brazil and seized the opportunity to follow my team-mates. I put being a player aside and became a supporter like millions of other Brazilians.
With the qualifiers for Qatar 2022 about to start, what do you think of the current Selecao?
We are very strong. The squad is more experienced, even though we have some youngsters. We have players who have been at two World Cups, like me for example. We’ve won, we’ve lost, we’ve had many positive and negative experiences, and we can help the youngsters with our experience. I’m very optimistic about the Selecao’s future.
Arthur, Cebolinha, Richarlison, David Neres, Paqueta, Gabigol, Vinícius Junior, Rodrygo, Reinier… what do you think of Brazil’s emerging youngsters?
Every one of them is very talented. And you can expect that, by 2022, others will have emerged. Brazil has an impressive ability to unearth talents.
Which other countries do you feel will be Brazil’s biggest rivals at Qatar 2022?
France, Belgium, England and Argentina.
What was it like to play alongside Lionel Messi, and do you think he is the best player in history?
Playing alongside Leo was a unique experience and we became friends. Of those I’ve seen play, Messi is the best in history!
Do you think this is the strongest PSG team you’ve played in, and can you win the UEFA Champions League this year?
I wouldn’t say the strongest, but I feel a different atmosphere and more confident, and this helps a lot day by day.
