Neymar Jr’s time at Barcelona is still fondly looked back at to this day.
The Brazilian winger formed a historic attacking trident with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi, playing an instrumental role in Barcelona’s treble in 2015.
Though his time at Barça was relatively short before his record-breaking transfer to PSG for €222 million, Neymar continued to make waves with PSG and the Brazilian national team.
As such, it is no surprise that several of Barcelona’s emerging talents, such as Lamine Yamal and other Brazilian players, hold Neymar in high regard.
Raphinha mocks Endrick
Recently, controversy arose when Real Madrid’s new signing, Endrick, chose Jude Bellingham over his fellow Brazilian Neymar during a Q&A session.
Predictably, this decision did not sit well with many in Brazil. Thiago Silva responded with laughing face emojis to Endrick’s choice, a gesture seen by many as dismissive of Neymar’s status.
Now, Barcelona winger Raphinha has also weighed in, using laughing face emojis in response to Endrick’s comment, a clear indication that he also perceived the comments made by Endrick as disrespectful to the Al-Hilal superstar.
As Neymar remains a key figure in Brazilian football, Endrick’s comments have stirred considerable backlash, calling for greater respect for the star.
Raphinha’s remarks could further strain relations, especially given his allegiance to Neymar. This situation may also add extra intrigue to future Clasico encounters.
In any case, while Jude Bellingham has proven himself as a great talent with a bright future, Endrick’s decision to side with his new club teammate is still unreasonable given the legacy Neymar has left behind.
Injuries have not enabled the 32-year-old to regularly showcase his talents on the biggest of stages, yet his success in Barcelona and Brazil continues to be revered and Raphinha recognizes that he warrants more respect.