The November international friendly fixture has created a lot of talk in Europe this week over how necessary it actually is. However, if any players need sympathy for the demands of the international calender then it’s Santos star Neymar.
Neymar, 20, has barely had a rest since making his Santos debut in 2009, a fact that not only underlines his importance to club and country but also to the Brazilian football calender that starts in January with the state championships and then runs straight through to December, without taking breaks for Fifa international dates.
The schedule means that it is not uncommon for players to play for both their country and club within 24-36 hours. However, Neymar is not complaining.
He told reporters ahead of the friendly against Columbia in the US: “I always represent the Seleção and always play for Santos. If next year I have to make the same effort to play for Brazil here on Wednesday and Santos on Thursday, I’m ready.”
The star was also asked once again about a possible move to Europe, a question that seems to be wearing thin.
“How long will you ask me that? I have a contract with Santos until 2014, I seek to fulfil my contract. If I’m staying or going, depends on our president,” he added.
