Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari believes national team duty gives Neymar a break from his celebrity lifestyle and commercial commitments back home.
The 21-year-old Santos star has so far resisted a move to Europe and has instead accumulated around a dozen sponsorship contracts to help boost his earnings.
However, they also make considerable demands on his time and Scolari believes time with the Seleção offers Neymar a chance to get away from it all.
“First of all, we talk about the normal day-to-day stuff, about life in general,” Scolari told reporters after the 2-2 draw with Italy on Thursday.
“Sometimes, we speak about investments and what he has to do to make sure he has a financially secure future.
“It’s not something a coach usually discusses with his players but we talk about it.
“I also tell him that when he is with the national team, he will be less exposed than he is with this club where he has to deal with a number of commitments and situations off the field.
“When he us with us, he is more protected, more sheltered, than in his club, the Brazil team is something of a refuge where he can get away from it all.”
Brazil and Santos legend Pelé has previously criticised Neymar for a perceived lack of concentration on football matters, stating the youngster is more concerned about “appearing in the media” and his “fashion and haircut”.
Source: Reuters
