Even after a recent mega-million dollar move to Paris, rumors have come about that Neymar could be en route to Real Madrid. If these rumors are true, should he be welcomed with opened arms?
Neymar is one of the best players in the world, and having him anywhere below the fourth best player in the world is most likely much too low. With that said, should he be welcomed at the Santiago Bernabéu? After scoring countless goals for the enemy, having his roots at Barcelona despite apparently growing up a Royal White, should he be welcomed to Real Madrid?
You’d be dumb to say he shouldn’t be welcomed.
In his short career thus far, Neymar has established himself as one of the best players in the world and he is on pace to be one of the best of all time. That is, if he is not already.
He’s a countless Ballon D’Or finalist, constant World XI member, he has the endorsements, he has the swagger, and adoring of the fans. He has everything Real Madrid looks for in a Galactico and more. He also has the skill.
In 18 appearances this season, for both club and country, Neymar has 15 goals and 9 assists. That’s 24 created goals in 15 games, which is a remarkable rate and would lead Real Madrid in both categories if inserted to the side this season. And for some reason, if you thought this is Neymar’s first season of dominance and not raw talent, you’re wrong. Jr. had 48 goals scored and assisted in 51 appearances last season and 79 in 68 appearances in 2015/2016.
He’s a star, a superstar, that’s not a debate.
In order for Real Madrid to win, they sometimes will have to spend large sums of money to bring in talent. They currently have a great score of young stars, who will likely all be amazing.
Barring Marco Asensio though, none are real Ballon d’Or types. Paying the $250-$300M for someone like Neymar, and pairing him with Ronaldo for his final years or Asensio as he blooms would ensure there is no shadow of a doubt that Real will continue to dominate. Even though in their current form, it doesn’t look that way.
What Real Madrid has lacked this year is a potent attacker who is efficient. Ronaldo has been poor this year like I have touched on before, and Asensio isn’t ready to put the biggest club in the world on his back. Exploring bringing in Neymar should be something that is done by the club if it isn’t already happening.
Next: Monday’s Real Links: A Derby Hangover