‘Neymar is a superstar!’, says World Cup winner Taffarel

Neymar is a superstar and can reinsert himself as a challenger for the most prestigious individual honors, says Brazil legend Claudio Taffarel.

Three years have passed since Neymar’s world-record €222m transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, and his reputation has arguably flawed since then.

The multi-skilled star, who previously impressed at Barcelona and Santos through his array of talents, became an almost forgotten figure inside the PSG camp after spending the bulk of his first two seasons injured.

But things improved last season as Neymar showed flashes of his best form in France again, helping PSG reach their first Champions League final and secure a domestic quadruple.

Although recent events, beyond anyone’s control, have spoiled Neymar’s prospects of landing a top major honor in 2020. France Football, for example, canceled the Ballon d’Or because of the coronavirus pandemic.

At 28, though, there is still time for Ney with FIFA’s The Best award still up for grabs. While Taffarel is hopeful World Cup success in 2022 will also come his way.

The former goalkeeper, who won the 1994 World Cup with Brazil, told FIFA.com on Neymar: “A great player. He plays the game in a beautiful way. He’s an incredible dribbler, sets up goals, scores fantastic goals.

“He’s very important for us. We really hope he can be at his best and help Brazil win another World Cup. He’s a superstar.”

Neymar can't hide his disappointment 😢#UCLfinal | #UCL | #PSGFCB pic.twitter.com/G3EPmYJkgG

— Goal (@goal) August 23, 2020

The disappointment on Neymar’s face was clear for all to see upon losing Sunday’s Champions League final 1-0 to Bayern Munich.

He didn’t have his best game in Lisbon despite a bright start, fading away as the final reached its climax. However, Taffarel hopes his compatriot will get another chance to be crowned as the world’s best.

“I cheered a lot for Paris because of the Brazilians who play there,” Taffarel said on the final.

“I really wanted Neymar to win this Champions League and, consequently, The Best FIFA [Men’s Player] award.

“But it’s just one day. I really hope in the future he can win this award and be considered the best player in the world.

“But I thought it was a good football game, well thought out and well played. It wasn’t easy for anyone, but Bayern capitalized upon their chance. I think Bayern were deserved winners.”