World Cup Brazil 2014: Spanish Press Is Attempting Destabilisation Against Neymar

LISBON: On Monday, Felipe Scolari said that the Spanish press are scheming a campaign to try to destabilise Barcelona’s Brazilian star, Neymar. This is to prohibit Neymar to get ahead of this year’s World Cup finals in Brazil.

In a press conference in Lisbon on Monday, Scolari claimed that stories about the 22-year-old winger about him diving to obtain penalties and create controversy over his transfer last summer from Santos.

According to Scolari, the press’ steps were aimed to put Neymar off his game as Brazil is preparing to host the global football showpiece this June.

“Neymar’s case is really simple, only those who close their eyes can’t see it clearly for what it is. Neymar is often criticised by the Spanish press because it has a vested interest that he is not at his best at the World Cup,” said Scolari.

“We know that he is good, that he is a star. He was the decisive factor in Barcelona’s games against both Real Madrid and Espanyol,” Scolari continues.

“In the last match against Atletico Madrid (1-1 in last week’s last 16 first leg match), he was once again the difference.”

“He unlocks a game. If he is considered the best player in the world it is because he deserves the accolade because he plays very well,” added Scolari.

Meanwhile, Scolari announced that he was on a mini tour in Europe to restore the confidence of some players — according to rumours, it is believed to include Chelsea’s David Luiz — about his spot in the squad for the finals which he will finally announce on May 7.

“My list is already 95 per cent done. This trip is mostly for psychological reasons. We have met with players in Paris and London and we are now going to Munich.”

“On Sunday we had lunch in London and transmitted a message of confidence to the players.”

“We are trying to calm down those players who will be selected so that they can perform at their best for their clubs, because it is the club which pays them,” Scolari concluded.