The former Rojiblancos defender clashed with the Brazilian striker during his time at Barcelona and admits to being a nuisance he had to go up against.
He was not a saint either
Neymar has been dubbed an insufferable legend by Atlético Madrid Juanfran, with the former Rojiblancos defender picking the Brazilian forward as his most annoying rival. The 36-year-old defender spent eight years with Atlético before retiring in 2019 to Sao Paulo, with a memorable period in the Spanish capital allowing him to line up against some of the very best in the business. Neymar fell into this category, completing a big money move to Barcelona in 2013, and while the South American was often seen with moments of magic in the serve, he also proved to be a nuisance for those he encountered. Asked El Larguero to name the opponent that annoyed him the most, Juanfran said Neymar. From the playground they tell him that he is a good child, but on the playground it is unbearable. He provoked you with or without the ball, but he was not a saint either.
Neymar is currently focused on his future
Neymar has earned a reputation for being as disappointing as it is flamboyant theatricality, seemingly never far off when it comes to the 29-year-old striker, but there is no doubt about his ability. The global superstar scored 105 goals in 186 appearances during his tenure at Barca before making a record €222 million move to PSG in 2017. He remained a relaxed character in France, with injuries stalling his progress, but another 85 goals were recorded in addition to his medal collection. Much of the focus on Neymar is currently focused on its future, with no contract renewal due to expire in the summer of 2022 negotiated with the Ligue 1 title holders.