Neymar: Hansi Flick's view on potential Barcelona reunion revealed
- Neymar has been linked with a shock return to Barcelona
- The 33-year-old forward has made a strong start to his second spell at Santos
- Hansi Flick has given his verdict on a move for Neymar
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick does not consider a move for Neymar to be a "priority" despite extensive interest from the club's board, according to a report in Spain.
Neymar enjoyed four trophy-laden seasons at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017 before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in a record-shattering £198m deal. After failing to live up to lofty price tag, the injury-prone forward endured a disastrous 18 months in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal which amounted to just seven very costly appearances and one goal.
Brazil's all-time leading scorer returned to his first club Santos in January and has already found the net three times, prompting interest from Barcelona about a shock return.
While club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco are thought to be open to a deal, Flick is less keen. Spanish publication SPORT pointedly note that the German coach "has not asked" for Neymar's arrival and the forward is not thought to be anywhere near the top of the manager's transfer shortlist.
Barcelona's record-breaking start to the campaign has been underpinned by a blistering high press and transitions carried out at concussive speed. Robert Lewandowski has been given a new lease of life at 36 largely because Flick gets Barcelona's wingers to carry out the bulk of his pressing duties.
Raphinha's tactical savvy and startling physical gifts together with the youthful exuberance of a 17-year-old Lamine Yamal make this energy-sapping system work. It is not entirely clear how Neymar would fit in.
The increasingly injury-riddled forward was not included in Al Hilal's Saudi Pro League squad this year because head coach Jorge Jesus didn't trust his body to hold up. "The truth is that physically, Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to," the Portuguese boss sighed.
If he cannot be counted upon in the Saudi top flight, it certainly raises questions about his ability to perform in La Liga, let alone the Champions League.
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