Yamal Opposes Neymar’s Return to Barcelona

A similar situation once involved Messi and Ronaldinho.

Lamine Yamal holds deep respect for Leo Messi, but his true idol is Neymar. The young star shares much more in common with the Brazilian — fashion sense, hairstyle, body type, dribbling style, and a love for flashy tricks. From Messi, he has only inherited the number 19 jersey and the immense responsibility for Barcelona’s future.

So, wouldn’t it be a dream come true to play alongside his idol? Especially when that idol is actively seeking a return to Barcelona? Spanish and Brazilian media have been speculating for months that Neymar’s comeback to the Blaugrana is imminent. Reports suggest that his return to Santos was merely a stepping stone to regain fitness after his injury.

Barcelona, according to various media outlets, wouldn’t mind bringing Neymar back — under certain conditions, such as a minimum number of matches played and goals scored before the summer of 2025. However, Catalan outlet El Nacional recently claimed that Barcelona’s young stars, led by none other than Yamal himself, strongly oppose the return of the 33-year-old veteran.

A Tactical Misfit?

Yamal and his teammates argue that Neymar simply doesn’t fit into Hansi Flick’s system. And they have a point — Flick’s philosophy is built on high-intensity pressing, whereas Neymar, known for his love of carnivals and video games, has never been recognized for his work rate.

It’s also unclear where Neymar would fit tactically. He doesn’t directly threaten Barcelona’s young wingers but could challenge Raphinha for the left flank or take the No. 10 role in Flick’s 4-2-3-1 formation, where midfielders are rotated frequently. However, Raphinha is having a Ballon d’Or-worthy season, making it unrealistic to displace him. Meanwhile, the No. 10 in Flick’s system is expected to contribute both offensively and defensively, marking the opposition’s defensive midfielder — something Neymar is unlikely to excel at.

Messi and Guardiola’s Deja Vu

This scenario is not unprecedented. Back in 2008, a young Messi and Pep Guardiola faced a similar dilemma with Ronaldinho. After a frank discussion, they decided that the declining Brazilian was hindering Messi’s progress — not just due to his off-field lifestyle but also by dominating play on the pitch. Strategically, they made the tough decision to part ways with the once-magical star.

Of course, this is all according to Catalan media, and whether to believe it is up to the fans. But the idea of Neymar’s return does raise valid concerns. More importantly, Yamal’s reported stance seems to be in line with the majority of Barcelona’s supporters. Either Neymar will be ineffective, disrupt Flick’s tactical setup, or, most likely, spend more time in the treatment room than on the pitch.

Published by Patrick Jane
10.03.2025