Back in 2010 there was a huge clamour for then Santos star Neymar to be selected in Dunga’s Brazil World Cup squad, despite him having no previous senior Seleção caps before.
Dunga chose not to pick the youngsters four years ago despite various high profile former players insisting he should and a signature petition being signed by thousands of people.
Fastforward four years and Neymar is the star attacking performer for Brazil and the hopes of a nation rest on his should, and he has been talking about the difference between the ‘2010 Neymar’ and the present version.
The Barcelona forward spoke exclusively to Lancenet, with FIFA quoting the 22-year-old.
Neymar said: “It was not my turn (then) to play a World Cup. I have always worked for this day – unfortunately it didn’t happen for me on that occasion.
“But after that I was lucky enough to be called up to wear the Brazilian colours.
“I think the difference between the Neymar of 2010 and 2014 is that this one is more mature and has gained experience – the pleasure of playing remains the same.”
The Seleção fans will hope the experience Neymar has learned will help him win this summer’s World Cup.
