FC Barcelona striker Neymar Jr. has revealed the depth of his friendship with Luis Suarez, divulging that he misses the everyday conversations with the Uruguayan and Lionel Messi while on international duty with Brazil. Neymar also noted that he makes up for the absence by communicating with Suarez via messaging app Whatsapp.
Facing up to the scores of journalists gathered to hear his words ahead of Brazil’s crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier with Uruguay, Neymar jocularly revealed the closeness he shares with Suarez, saying “It's true, we are messaging via WhatsApp these days. In Barcelona, we said we would miss telling each other all the little things that happen in the day -- even in the warmups.”
“We are used to being together and we have a great friendship. Not just with him but also with Messi. In order to win on the field, we put up a fight. But now we won't be playing together, none of that.”
Commonly known as MSN, Leo Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar have become the most lethal strike trio in world football having racked up more goals than even high-scoring Borussia Dortmund this season.
Suarez and Neymar face off
Neymar and Luis Suarez will line up on opposite sides when Brazil take on Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier, with the Selecao two points behind their opponents in 3rd place. Neymar is looking forward to the contest however, saying “They like football, they like to see a show and they are going to like this game. It is attractive. You are facing a teammate who you hope to beat.”
The fixture takes place at the Arena Pernambuco in Recife, the first time Brazil are playing a game at the venue. Predictably, expectations are huge from the fans that Neymar will deliver them a victory. The Brazilian striker isn’t too bothered by the pressure, saying “Here there is a different energy. The fans are more welcoming, they are happy to see us here.
“We hope to return the favour with goals and good football -- or at the very least a victory. As for me, I don't mind being the one people talk about. It doesn't weigh on me. Every team has a person who is used as a reference, a player who stands out more than others. I always talk about the qualities of this group. There are many players here who are difference-makers for their clubs.”
