With FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi currently on a break from international football, his former teammate Neymar has commented on the superstar’s absence from national team duty ahead of the clash between Brazil and Argentina.
2⃣0⃣0⃣4⃣:Leo #Messi made his official first team debut?!
The rest is history??.
Enjoy his best moments as a Barça player on @Dugout
? https://t.co/pJOCYB1zqY pic.twitter.com/wg3GkeeyjB— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 16, 2018
The Argentine has not been called up since the Albiceleste’s exit from the 2018 FIFA World Cup, when they were beaten in the round of 16 by eventual winners France, after reportedly agreeing to take a break.
Ahead of the Superclasico de las Americas between Argentina and Brazil on Tuesday night, Neymar has now given his thoughts on Messi’s international sabbatical.
“It’s a pity for football,” he told Ole.
“We have to make the most of Messi for a long time. The more he plays, the better it is for football lovers.”
Neymar also revealed that he has rallied his teammates ahead of the clash between the two South American giants tonight.
“I spoke to my teammates,” he added.
“I told them the next game will be special because Argentina is our rival. It’s a great national team, with quality players. We are happy to face great athletes.
“That makes football all the more beautiful.”
Neymar believes Lionel Messi’s break from Argentina is “a pity for football.” pic.twitter.com/aUoJh43TkR
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 15, 2018
Neymar is currently third among the Selecao’s all-time leading goalscorers, having netted 59 times in 93 appearances so far. Only Ronaldo Nazario, with 62 strikes, and Pele, who retired with 77 goals for Brazil, have scored more.