Neymar focused on Rio 2016 gold with Brazil

Neymar focused on Rio 2016 gold with Brazil

Brazil star Neymar says he is focused on winning Olympic gold ahead of his home Games in Rio next month.

The Barcelona striker opted to miss the Copa America Centanario to step up his preparations for the event, with hopes of upgrading the silver medal he won in London in 2012.

“My strong point on the pitch is dribbling. I’m always looking to make space for my team-mates. Playing in Brazil is different. I think we have a great opportunity to make history and get the gold medal that Brazil wants. I am already an Olympic silver medallist from the last Olympic Games. And I hope that this time around we can get the gold.

“We have a strong group. We have players that play at a high level, who can also play in other positions as well. We only have 18 players, so there will be a time in the tournament where we will have to improvise and use a player in another position.

“In the end, that’s the decision of our manager, but knowing the qualities that we have as a team, there is a lot to evaluate. This is what we are doing in training, and every time we train we get to know ourselves better to start the competition and to be prepared.”

The 24-year-old hailed the impact that head coach Tite has had on the squad since taking over from Dunga in June, describing the former Corinthians boss as a ‘great person and coach’.

“I think at the moment we are looking at our qualities and what we have in certain areas. And I hope I will be able to help them in the best way possible. Just as much on the pitch as off the pitch. And I hope that we can do that as fast as possible. We are in search of our main objective.

“He’s a great person. A great coach as well. Since I’ve been working with him he’s surprised me in all different aspects. I hope he can keep taking us down the right path and that we can win the gold medal,” he added.

Tags:

neymar olympics Brazil football interview Tite Rio 2016 Preview news

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories