Why Neymar Must Be Respected
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, widely known as Neymar, is often overshadowed by the dominant narrative of his contemporaries like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. While their rivalry has shaped the footballing discourse for over a decade, Neymar's contributions, particularly his versatility, creativity, and technical skill, command immense respect.
In recent years, despite his injuries, his journey from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and most recently, Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, has continued to cement his legacy as one of football's modern greats.
A Consistent Performer Across Multiple Frontiers
One of Neymar’s most outstanding qualities is his adaptability and consistent performance across different clubs and competitions. His numbers speak for themselves. Over the course of 700 games, Neymar has scored 433 goals and provided a staggering 244 assists. These statistics place him firmly among the upper echelon of footballers, alongside Messi and Ronaldo, two of the game's most celebrated figures.
What sets Neymar apart, however, is not just his goal-scoring ability but his creative playmaking. With 244 assists, Neymar surpasses even Messi and Ronaldo in this domain. This demonstrates his ability to influence the game beyond scoring, setting up teammates and reading the play in a way few players can match. His vision, quick footwork, and agility make him one of the most dangerous players on the pitch, whether he’s leading the attack or creating opportunities for others.
Despite playing in fewer games than Ronaldo and Messi due to injuries, Neymar's contribution on the field has been no less significant. The Brazilian has displayed resilience by bouncing back time and again from setbacks, proving that his influence on the game transcends mere numbers.
Neymar at Al Hilal: The New Frontier
In August 2023, Neymar made headlines with his high-profile move to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, joining a growing list of elite footballers attracted to the Saudi Pro League. Neymar’s switch to Al Hilal marked a shift in the global football landscape. No longer was the spotlight solely on Europe; players like Neymar helped elevate the profile of football in regions like the Middle East.
Though his time at Al Hilal has been hindered by a significant knee injury, his presence alone has transformed the club's fortunes. Al Hilal, already one of Asia’s most successful teams, added Neymar to their star-studded roster, which includes players like Rúben Neves and Aleksandar Mitrović.
The club has continued to dominate, winning multiple trophies in the 2023-2024 season, and remains a formidable force in Asian football.Even with Neymar sidelined, his influence on Al Hilal’s strategy and morale is unmistakable. The club has benefitted not only from his talents but also from his star power, helping attract global attention to Saudi Arabian football.
Neymar’s contributions off the field, in building the brand and bringing a new fan base to Al Hilal, highlight his role as a footballing ambassador on a global stage.A Polarizing Figure:
Neymar’s Challenges and Criticisms
Despite his accolades, Neymar has often been a polarizing figure in football, attracting as much criticism as praise. Some have accused him of failing to fully realize his potential, arguing that his injury record and off-field distractions have prevented him from reaching the same heights as Messi and Ronaldo. His frequent injuries, particularly in crucial moments like the 2018 World Cup and during pivotal Champions League ties, have undoubtedly stalled his career progression.
However, dismissing Neymar based solely on these injuries or perceptions of inconsistency overlooks the broader context. Football is not just about scoring goals; it’s about how a player impacts the game holistically. Neymar’s dribbling, passing, and positioning often dictate the flow of matches. His flair and creativity make him a magnet for fouls, leading to several of his injuries. When he’s on the pitch, defenders often resort to rough play simply to contain him, resulting in some unfortunate injuries.
Furthermore, Neymar's ability to perform in high-pressure environments is often underestimated. For instance, during his time at Barcelona, his role in the famous "La Remontada" match in the Champions League—where Barcelona overturned a 4-0 deficit against PSG to win 6-1—was instrumental. Neymar scored twice and assisted the crucial final goal that sent Barcelona through to the next round. Such performances under immense pressure showcase his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Legacy Beyond the Numbers: Neymar as a Cultural Icon
While Messi and Ronaldo are often seen as embodiments of consistency and hard work, Neymar represents something more fluid: the spirit of Brazilian football. He plays with a freedom and joy that harkens back to the days of Pelé and Ronaldinho, embracing the "samba" style that has long been synonymous with Brazil’s footballing identity. This aspect of his game has made him not just a player but a cultural icon. Neymar's brand goes beyond his footballing achievements, as he influences fashion, music, and entertainment. His charisma has allowed him to transcend sports, making him a household name across the world.
For Brazil, Neymar is more than a footballer—he’s a symbol of hope and flair in a country that reveres football as its lifeblood. His 77 international goals for Brazil, equaling Pelé’s record, further cement his legacy as one of the nation's greatest ever players. Despite facing criticism, Neymar continues to be a beacon for future generations of Brazilian footballers.
Neymar must be respected for his contributions on and off the field. His technical skill, creativity, and ability to overcome adversity make him one of football’s most influential players. While his career has been marked by ups and downs, his impact on the game, particularly in terms of playmaking and cultural significance, remains unparalleled. Whether at Barcelona, PSG, or now at Al Hilal, Neymar’s legacy as a global footballing icon is undeniable.
References
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/neymar-injury-update-what-happened-return-date-brazil/f4c2b3a16c34e29a123e9bb7
https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2024/5/neymars-al-hilal-celebrate-record-breaking-season-with-fans-at-kingdom-arena-769809
