Javier Pastore, a former Argentina international, has taken aim at Brazilian footballer Neymar, criticizing him for what he perceives as a lack of dedication and comparing him unfavorably to football giants Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Despite being touted as the heir to the thrones of Messi and Ronaldo, Neymar has fallen short of reaching their heights. Pastore, who once played alongside Neymar at Paris Saint-Germain, asserted that the now-Al Hilal player possesses all the attributes required for football greatness but lacks the determination and hunger exhibited by other football legends.
According to Pastore, Neymar’s commitment to football falls short of the 100% mark. “Had he desired, he could have contested the Ballon d’Or against Messi, Cristiano, and others, but his approach to life differs. Football isn’t his sole focus,” Pastore remarked to French media outlet LaNacion.
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Expressing his affection for Neymar, Pastore revealed his initial expectation of encountering arrogance but admitted to being pleasantly surprised. “I hold a deep fondness for him. I’ve communicated with him frequently, especially during his injury period. Initially, I anticipated encountering arrogance, but I was mistaken,” Pastore added.