English top flight too physical for Santos star, says Brazil icon.
Brazil legend Pele has urged his compatriot Neymar to join Liga giants Barcelona rather than Premier League champions Manchester City, says the Daily Mail.
Reports in the English press on Tuesday had suggested that Roberto Mancini and Co were preparing a £55 million bid for the 21-year-old Santos playmaker this summer, but Pele says the English top flight is too physical for the player.
“The game is tougher in England, Italy and Germany because the referees usually let play go on. Barcelona would be ideal for him,” Pele said.
“Santos need him and for that reason I don’t think he should leave but if he must go it should be to Barcelona.
“He is an excellent player but he doesn’t have any experience outside Brazil. In every game he plays outside Brazil, he doesn’t do well. Everybody thinks Neymar can solve the national team’s problems, but he isn’t ready for that burden.
“We have a great deal of confidence in him but he has become a regular player for the national team.
“We think that he is the best in the world, but he is more concerned about appearing in the media than playing for the team.
“Neymar has a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders. Right now his major concerns are fashion and his haircut.”
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