A year ago if asked I would have said that the Brazilian while talented, was not needed at the Camp Nou due to the exploits of Messi, Alexis and the introduction of Tello. Fast forward to the latter stages of this recently concluded season and to me it became apparent the reliance on Messi was detrimental to the progress of the club. Messi is a phenomenon and is clearly the most talented player of his generation, but even he is fallible to injuries and dips in form. The matches against AC Milan (1st leg), PSG (2nd leg) and Bayern at the Allianz Arena showed that there isn't much creativity or dynamism of Messi is off par or contained in a well honed marking system. The arrival of Neymar in theory and in hope for fans is that he has the same impact or close to it as Ronaldinho did in the early parts of the Rijkaard era. The ability to take on opponents, draw defenders onto himself therefore creating space for Messi or Pedro or runs from deep as Fabregas did so well at Arsenal and parts of last season. Neymar would add much needed creativity to an attack that is heavily focused on everything going through Messi, and in some extents it's understandable; his stats show his insatiable hunger for goals and assists. However, he needs help (I know how silly that sounds for a 4 time Ballon D'Or winner) and Neymar is in my opinion is as crucial for FCB this summer as signing a replacement for Puyol.
That's all I can write for now i will update soon on more transfer news and anything in football in general.
Bossman.
