Neymar 'Probably Can Take Lionel Messi's Place,' Former Barcelona Player Says

A former Barcelona midfielder thinks Neymar can take Lionel Messi’s place in the Catalan club when he’s not around.

Ahead of Barcelona’s official return to the pitch, there has been an array of issues that the club has had to deal with. Aside from the fact that there are major concerns linked to the coronavirus, fans are also bothered about the absence of Messi. It has been revealed that the Barcelona superstar has incurred a thigh injury, but the club insists that it wouldn’t be a long-term setback.

With Messi sidelined, Barca’s winning chances could definitely go down as the captain had already stated that they cannot win the Champions League this season with the way they have been performing. This statement was backed by former Barcelona midfielder Jofre Mateu, who also played for ATK and Goa FC in the Indian Super League.

In a recent interview with IANS (via The New Indian Express), Mateu commented on the current situation of his former club. According to the 40-year-old, the captain, Messi, did the right thing when he urged his teammates to play better as they are still at the top and could possibly win the Champions League.

"I agree with Messi because I think Barcelona this season aren't playing as good as they can. But they are still at the top (of LaLiga) and have a chance against Napoli (in Champions League). I think Messi said this as a message for the squad that 'guys we need a little push'," Mateu said.

Amid all the drama at Camp Nou this season, talks of a possible “MSN” (Messi, Suarez, Neymar) reunion emerged. Many are thilled about Neymar’s possible Barcelona return as they believe that he could be the missing piece in the club’s attempt to regain supreme dominance. However, Mateu thinks that the Brazilian wouldn’t only be a great addition but could even be Barcelona’s main guy whenever Messi isn’t around.

"Some players will be very happy if he comes back because they are very good friends. When he left Barcelona it came as a shock for us, the supporters. He certainly isn't the same player anymore because of his age and also his off-field problems. But as a player there is probably no discussion that he is one of the best in the world,” Mateu said of Neymar.

“When Messi isn't there, then probably he can take his place,” he added.

Barcelona is still reportedly negotiating Neymar’s transfer. Just recently, Neymar once again expressed his interest in reuniting with Messi at Camp Nou.