Neymar will not replace Messi, says Gerardo Martino

Neymar not a replacement for Messi

Neymar played one of his best games for Barcelona against Celtic in the Champions League, this week. With Lionel Messi ruled out due to injury, all eyes were on the Brazilian, as to how he performs in the absence of the Argentine.

Barcelona manager, Gerardo Martino although suggested that Neymar did not take Messi’s place in the team.

Espn quoted Martino: “Even though he is very young, Neymar is used to taking on the load of more experienced players. Each player does what they can, in accordance with their own possibilities. Neymar does not need to fill the hole left by Messi. Thinking about one player stepping into the shoes of another does not interest me.”

Although the Argentine manager did not reveal his plans regarding forming the attacking trio in absence of Lionel Messi.

“[Neymar] can play as a centre-forward — we will see that maybe tomorrow, or another time. We know that, with Leo’s injury, Neymar, Alexis and Cesc can come in, with their different characteristics.” He said.

On Mascherano’s absence and Alexis’ role, he said: “Leo and Mascherano have injuries, as the Argentina medical staff can know. We do not know if they want to travel. Neither Messi nor Mascherano have a medical all-clear, but the decision is with Argentina.

“When he does not play a good game, there is a lot of criticism. And when he does well and gives a good assist like the other day, nobody says anything. Sometimes I am surprised at how harshly people criticise him. He should just play like Alexis Sanchez and not try to copy anyone else.”