Former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star Javier Pastore has offered a significant assessment of Neymar, comparing the Brazilian forward unfavorably to major names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
The Argentine international, who spent a season alongside Neymar at PSG, stated that Neymar hasn’t fully committed himself to football. This, according to Pastore, is the primary reason why Neymar has never truly reached the heights of Ronaldo and Messi.
Neymar had been boldly predicted by football pundits worldwide to succeed Messi and Ronaldo as one of the prime contenders for future Ballon d’Or titles. However, Neymar’s career has not unfolded as many had hoped.
Pastore, who shared a dressing room with Neymar, highlighted the Brazilian’s array of talents but also pointed out his lack of determination and passion compared to other football legends. Pastore expressed to French news agency LaNacion, “There is no doubt that Neymar is a phenomenon in the football world. He is genuinely talented and kind-hearted. Neymar lives his life the way he wants. No one can manage Neymar.”
“I have never seen a player as talented as Neymar, except Messi. He possesses all the qualities of a star. Ball control? Excellent. Speed? Neymar is exceptionally fast. Jumping? He leaps high. Neymar has it all. He does what he wants with opponents and teammates. Neymar can score with both feet. If you talk about a dream player, think of Neymar,” added Pastore.
The former PSG attacking midfielder further commented, “I feel if Neymar wants the Ballon d’Or, he will fight for it, like Messi and Ronaldo have done. But unlike anyone else, Neymar wants and lives his life differently. He doesn’t live for football 100%. Personally, I really admire Neymar. I have praised him a lot. Since Neymar joined PSG, I thought he was arrogant, but I was wrong. Nevertheless, I am very sorry for Neymar’s unfinished career.”
Despite being hailed as a Ballon d’Or contender from a young age, Neymar’s career, while successful in many respects, has fallen short of his personal aspirations. The 30-year-old star’s off-field lifestyle and recent injury woes have limited his playing time.
Neymar currently plies his trade for Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal, having moved from PSG in the summer for a transfer fee of €90 million. He remains the most expensive player ever and also the costliest acquisition in the history of the Saudi Pro League.