Ronaldo, Messi 'Live For Football,' Neymar Should Learn From Their Professionalism, Legend Says

A Brazilian soccer legend lauded Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for their professionalism and wants Neymar to follow in their footsteps.

Zico, a Brazilian legend who played the best games of his career during the 1980s, took a dig at Neymar’s lack of professionalism.

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zico gave Neymar some father-like pieces of advice and pointed out that if “Ney” really wants to become one of the best in the world, he must be more professional like his former Barcelona teammate Messi and Juventus star Ronaldo, AS reported.

"I like Neymar, the way he plays is incredible. But he has to be more professional, like Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, who live for football," Zico said.

The 67-year-old coach even recalled the time he personally told Neymar during a recent encounter the same exact thing as he sees a bright future ahead for the 28-year-old superstar.

"Ney has too many things which distract him. I spoke to him recently and I asked him to become more professional. He is 28 years old now and there is a good team at PSG. They can win the Champions League. It will depend on his quality throughout the tournament, not just for one match. Now Ney has more experience and maturity," Zico recalled.

In his stellar career, Neymar is often criticized for his immaturity and has been well known for his consistent love for big parties. The world has witnessed Neymar throw a number of huge get-togethers in the past. In fact, despite being told that throwing another massive party for his birthday this year could exhaust him and worsen his issues with injuries, the Brazilian still threw a lavish one at Yoyo nightclub in Paris. He reportedly incurred a rib injury in the process.

The Paris Saint-Germain star currently has scored a total of 69 goals in 80 appearances in all competitions since arriving at the Parc des Princes from Barcelona for a world-record transfer fee in August 2017. Neymar has been impressive, having won every domestic title available in France. However, injuries, and now the coronavirus pandemic, have hindered his attempts to lead PSG to success in the Champions League.

Rumor has it that Neymar and Barcelona are mutually interested in a possible reunion. The move would be Neymar’s epic return to the Camp Nou after leaving in summer 2017.