Brazilian superstar Neymar chose international teammate Marcelo as the only player from Real Madrid he wanted Barcelona to sign. It was a typically partisan response from Neymar, who obviously did not want to spark his good relation with Lionel Messi.
In an interview with CNN, the 24-year-old forward was asked about the Real Madrid player he would like to play alongside in Barcelona colours.
Given Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent endeavours, one might be inclined to think that he would be Neymar’s obvious choice. Ronaldo recently claimed his fourth Ballon d’Or after a successful campaign in which he won the Euro Cup and the Champions League.
Also read: Lionel Messi deserves Ballon d'or award over Cristiano Ronaldo says Neymar
However, the Barcelona forward did not pick the Portuguese forward, but instead chose Marcelo, the Los Blancos left-back.
“To play with me at Barcelona?," asked Neymar.
"I would pick Marcelo. Because he’s my friend.”
When he was specifically asked if he would consider Ronaldo, Neymar was equivocal as he nonchalantly answered, “No I’d pick Marcelo.”
It is not very surprising that Marcelo was the man who was picked by Neymar. The two share an amicable relationship and are indeed great friends off the pitch. The Brazilian duo have been playing together for the national team for quite a while.
Ronaldo, Bale and Benzema are star footballers, says Neymar
Although he insisted that playing alongside Ronaldo was out of question, but was full of praise about Real Madrid’s famous BBC frontline.
“They are star footballers who are also making football history. Cristiano Ronaldo for having four Ballon d’Ors. Bale is also having a great season. Benzema is a great striker who I think’s a superstar. So it’s a good battle, a healthy battle which we have in the Clásico,” he said.
Also read: What if: Neymar signed for Real Madrid and Gareth Bale signed for Barcelona
The Brazilian also acknowledged how Lionel Messi helped him settle down in Spain after he moved from Brazil. He was also keen on playing down all suggestions that Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez are the greatest trio in the history of the game.
Barcelona are currently 2nd in the La Liga table, six points beneath table toppers Real Madrid. The Catalonian club failed to register a win at the Camp Nou against their arch rivals Madrid as Sergio Ramos headed in a late equaliser.
(Video Courtesy: g Element YouTube Channel)
