NEYMAR needs to become more professional if he wants to reach the same levels as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
That is according to Brazilian legend Zico who is widely regarded as one of South America’s greatest ever players.
Neymar needs to show more professionalism to emulate Messi and RonaldoCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Neymar, 28, has struggled to step out from the shadows of the Barcelona and Juventus man since bursting onto the scene at Santos.
A high profile move to Barca followed in 2013 where he won six major trophies before his huge world record £199million move to Paris Saint-Germain.
The French giants have so far failed in their plan to win the Champions League while Neymar has received his fair share of criticism on his part.
And Zico, who scored 48 goals in 94 games for Brazil, wants Neymar to become more professional and do his talking on the pitch.
He said: “I really like Ney, his way of playing is incredible. But he has to be more professional like Ronaldo and Messi, who live for football.
“Ney has too many thoughts that distract him. I spoke to him recently and asked him to be more professional.
Brazil legend Zico wants to see Neymar do his talking on the pitchCredit: AFP
“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.”
Neymar has suffered a string on injuries since his big move while his time at PSG has been marred with constant transfer speculation.
Last season he went AWOL to try and force a move back to Spain with Barcelona and Real Madrid showing an interest.
The club were forced to take disciplinary action after he failed to turn up to training but ended up staying in Paris after talks collapsed.
Other controversies include punching a spectator following their cup final loss to Rennes last season and insulting the video referee after a shock Champions League loss to Manchester United.
Neymar was also criticised at the 2018 World Cup having been accused of persistent diving.
Presenters of tv show Fofoca Lizando applaud Neymar for his donation of £770,000 to help fight coronavirus
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
