5 things Neymar needs to do to win the 2021 Ballon d'Or

#3 Score in the Champions League semi-final and final

Neymar and Kylian Mbappe celebrate a goal for Paris Saint-Germain

While Paris Saint-Germain and Neymar have been dominant in the league since the purchase by Qatar Sports Investment, European success has eluded them so far.

Having signed Neymar and Kylian Mbappe on record deals, PSG will be hoping that their stars help them attain glory in the Champions League. The Brazil international, especially, left Barcelona to pave his own path and get away from the shadow of Lionel Messi.

Leonardo was ‘optimistic’ about Neymar contract because the Brazilian star has not changed his mind, as of today.One month ago, Neymar reached a verbal agreement with PSG to extend his contract until 2026 - last details to be sorted.PSG are now waiting for Ney to sign. 🇧🇷 #PSG

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 8, 2021

Playing a crucial role and scoring in the Champions League semi-final and final could justify Neymar's move to Paris Saint-Germain. The 29-year old was signed as a statement of intent by PSG and has a good opportunity to write his name in the history books by playing a key role in the Champions League.

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#2 Win the Golden Boot/Golden Ball at the Copa America

Neymar in Brazil colours

Long heralded as Brazil's next big superstar, there is no denying the immense pressure Neymar carries when representing his country.

The forward is the second highest goalscorer for Brazil, with only Pele having scored more goals than him for the national team. Despite this, more is expected from the mercurial attacker, and this summer's Copa America is a good chance for him to make his legacy.

🇧🇷 Most Champions League goals scored by a Brazilian: Neymar🇧🇷 Most Champions League assists provided by a Brazilian: NeymarNow he's the leader on two lists of legendary names. #UCL pic.twitter.com/51hoiSpZIM

— William Hill (@WilliamHill) April 7, 2021

Brazil are the defending champions of the Copa America, but Neymar missed out on the tournament last time around. Winning the Golden Boot (top goalscorer) or the Golden Ball (best player) while potentially helping Brazil retain the trophy would help Neymar a long way in the race for the 2021 Ballon d'Or.

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#1 Win the Copa America

Neymar is the second-highest goalscorer for the national team

As mentioned above, Neymar missed out on the 2019 Copa America due to injury issues.

Brazil won that tournament, with the likes of Dani Alves and Everton Soares impressing with their performances. This time around, Neymar looks set to be a part of the Brazil squad and the onus will be on him to be the star player for his national side.

Like Lionel Messi for Argentina, there is a heavy burden on Neymar to help Brazil win a trophy. The fact that Brazil won the Copa America without their key forward would have motivated Neymar, and the former Santos man will be keen to help the Selecao win the Copa America once again.

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