Neymar has once again become a talked-about figure in the world of football, particularly in the wake of his recent performances at Santos, which have sealed his re-entry into the Brazilian national team.
Neymar, aware of his solid start at Santos, is now reportedly eyeing a return to Barcelona next summer, much to the curiosity of the fans.
Deco blocks Neymar’s return
However, the club’s sporting director, Deco, has no intention of bringing Neymar back to Barcelona, reports SPORT.
Deco has made it clear that there is no interest from Barcelona in re-signing Neymar. While the Brazilian was once a crucial figure at the club, his departure in 2017 left a bitter taste.
Not to mention, his career trajectory since then has been filled with injuries, controversies, and inconsistency.
Neymar will return to the Brazilian national team this month (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images)
Now, at 33, Neymar is no longer the same player who once dazzled the Camp Nou faithful alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
Neymar may disrupt Barcelona dressing room
Aside from Neymar’s career trajectory and decline, the report adds that Deco is wary of Neymar’s potential influence in the dressing room.
With Barcelona currently in a phase of rebuilding, integrating young talents such as Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, the club are focused on developing a disciplined and professional environment.
Neymar’s return, Deco believes, could disrupt this process and negatively impact the promising core of youngsters.
While some fans continue to dream of a fairytale reunion, Barcelona’s leadership has made it clear that nostalgia will not dictate their sporting decision, which, in hindsight, could be the right decision.