Soccer
We caught up with Brazilian football superstar Neymar da Silva Santos Jr, who says he's a better player than in 2014 and tips Belgium as possible surprise winners of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Neymar Jr has been a revelation for French giants Paris Saint-Germain since his world record summer switch from Barcelona and is now aiming to fire Brazil to a record sixth title when the tournament gets underway in Russia on June 14.
In 2014 on home soil Neymar Jr helped the hosts overcome Chile and Colombia before a devastating injury prevented him taking the field in the 7-1 semi-final defeat by eventual winners Germany.
His four goals in the tournament still saw him finish third in the Golden Boot, but with 53 goals now to his name, hot on the heels of Pele’s national record of 77, he believes he can make his mark once again.
We sat down with Neymar Jr to ask him about the forthcoming World Cup and how he's adjusted to life in Paris...
1) What's the difference between the Neymar Jr who scored four goals in 2014 and the Neymar Jr in 2018?
The difference is hard to explain, but I think I'm more experienced, more wise, more 'cascudo', as we say in Brazil. This is because I had many experiences, I participated in a World Cup where we lost and I think I'll be more prepared for the next one, because I know what it's like to be in a World Cup, I can be better prepared. So the Neymar in 2018 is better than the Neymar in 2014.
2) Which country has the greatest potential in Russia? And which team do you think might spring a surprise?
I think the best-known teams are the favourites, as always. Among them are Brazil, Germany, France, Spain, Argentina... These teams will be the highlights in any championship. And for the surprise... I think Belgium has an excellent team and can be a surprise in this Cup. Salah (from Egypt) is a great player who can make a difference in the World Cup.
3) What did you think of the group from Brazil? Is there a team that could be the most difficult to play against?
In the World Cup you can't really choose, there's no 'easy' team to play with. So I think all games will be very difficult, that's why it’s called the World Cup, right? The best teams in the world, and every game is a huge game.
4) How is your French? Who's teaching you? Marquinhos and Thiago Silva?
"No parler français". The Brazilians help me a lot there, I always ask them what is this, what is that, and I try to talk because I’m shameless, so I'm learning. I understand a lot of what people say, but I don't speak the language yet.
5) What about your adaptation to French football?
The adaptation to the French League was quick, I think. Because the European style is very similar everywhere, so there is not much difference between the leagues. I think the Brazilian players in Paris helped me a lot here, all the guys from our team (in general), the Spaniards, they have all helped me to adapt and it's getting easier for me.
