YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO IMPROVE!
YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO IMPROVE!
We caught up with the living legend to learn more about his early years, everyday activities, unique passions and interests, sense of personal flair, and much more.
Neymar da Silva Santos Junior, also known as Neymar, is a Brazilian football player who currently plays as a forward or winger for Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazilian national team. His playing style, which is characterised by his acceleration, speed, dribbling, finishing, and ability to use both feet, has won him praise from fans, the media, and former players.
Ronaldinho has predicted that Neymar “will be the best in the world,” while the former Brazil forward Pelé has called him “an excellent player.” Since it was revealed that Neymar would be making a high-profile move to Barcelona in Spain and then PSG in France, all eyes have been on him.
You seem so vibrant and alive, Neymar. Have you always had this personality?
I’ve always been really upbeat and playful with everyone since I was a young child. I like to have fun!
You’ve claimed to have come from a very modest background. How joyous was your early life?
When you play today – even in the biggest of games – do you feel that same excitement that you had as a kid?
I followed the same path as other boys my age and have many lovely memories. Yes, I grew up in poverty, but my friends and I always had a good time. playing tag, hide-and-seek, flying kites, riding bikes, and playing with a ball in the street or on the beach. It was an excellent time! We’ll get to football, but first, tell us about your other childhood passions. For instance, were you constantly wishing you could dance and perform because you loved music and dancing?
As a result of my aunt and uncle’s cavaquinho (guitar) playing, music has always been present in our home. You might always hear different rhythms at home, like gospel, pagoda, and samba. I’ve also always enjoyed dancing.
Your dad played football. Was there a football in your crib when you were a baby?
I believe so. And I’m sure it had a major impact on my decision to become a player. I grew up in such environment because whenever I could, I accompanied my father to practises and games.
Tell us about the kind of football you used to play when you were a kid. You played a lot of futsal, in my opinion. What did you learn from the game with fewer players?
I used to play with a ball a lot in the street and on the beach, and since I was young, futsal has always been a part of my life. I started training and competing on that pitch. Futsal, in my opinion, is crucial for every player because it forces you to think quickly while executing short swerves, rapid passes, and quick shots. Futsal undoubtedly helped me a lot, especially considering that I was a striker.
Was it always important to stand out as a footballer, to show off your individual skills?
You must always get better. I have followed my father’s advice to finish a workout fatigued ever since I was a young child. You can always get better at anything, whether it’s shooting with your left foot, marking, finishing, heading, or anything else.
For instance, you have a great mind for math. Has that been a labour of love for you?
Despite not being a tall player, I spend a lot of time practising with the ball and anticipating when to go up and make a move because I lack that characteristic.
To determine whether to head to the side or the front, it also has a lot to do with how effectively the wingers pass the ball to me. Training and dedication are required.
Having said that, you are also a performer, a youthful, attractive player who gets spectators up and moving. Do you consider it your duty to carry it out?
It took me some time to adjust to everything, but today I am aware of what I stand for among the public and the supporters. When I visit locations and observe people’s reactions and devotion, it is quite fulfilling. At first, it was a little strange.
You put in a lot of effort and want to have fun. Does that characterise you outside of football?
On and off the field, happiness is the most essential thing to me since I am always the same person. Being happy is definitely evident in how I live my life.
How do your friends describe you? Are you comfortable being the centre of attention? What causes you to smile?
I enjoy spending time at home alone, conversing, playing cards, playing video games, and listening to music. The focus does not lie on any one man. Everyone is given the same treatment.
What do you care about most, outside from football?
There are many things I enjoy, including having barbecues with my family and friends, playing video games, playing cards, and go-karting.
What would be on your iPhone if we switched it on right now and searched for music?
I constantly listen to samba, pagoda, country, gospel, funk, and world music, among other genres.
You represent a team and nation that are arguably the most well-known in the world. This puts pressure on you. How would you unwind?
Having my family and friends around me.