5 reasons why Neymar is the greatest footballer in the world today

Modified Apr 13, 2017 14:05 GMT

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 16: Neymar of Barcelona prepares for a corner kick during the UEFA Champions League round of 16, second Leg match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal FC at Camp Nou on March 16, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) — Neymar signed for Barcelona for £49m in 2013

#3 He’s the benchmark

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - MARCH 28: Neymar of Brazil celebrates a scored goal against Paraguay during a match between Brazil and Paraguay as part of 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Qualifier at Arena Corinthians on March 28, 2017 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) — Neymar has scored 77 goals for Brazil

Nowadays you rarely hear casual fans comparing a youngster to the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, why? Because they’re not the benchmark anymore. Nowadays if any winger shows a bit of good form, they’re instantly compared to Neymar.

Kylian Mbappe and Eden Hazard have both received that treatment this season, despite their stunning campaigns, neither are worthy of being in the same sentence as Neymar.

Neymar is now not only the benchmark on the pitch, he’s also the figure to look up to outside of it. The Brazilian has amassed several celebrity endorsements as well as high-profile sponsorships this year. He was one of the first to use social media for promotion & financial incentives and now he’s one of the most popular and wealthy.

Neymar is the go-to guy in every aspect of the phrase.

Edited by Staff Editor