Rivaldo: "With Neymar, Barça would win the Champions League again"
The fellow Brazilian believes it was a mistake for Neymar to sign for PSG and that he could win over the supporters quickly if he returned
Rivaldo, who stepped out on the Camp Nou pitch again this Thursday in a promotional event by Betfair, has given his verdict on the main topics doing the rounds at FC Barcelona.
"I would love for Neymar to return. It would be good for Barca and for Neymar," the iconic forward told the media after a football tournament held by Betfair.
"It was a mistake that he left. He doesn't say that, nor does his father, but it was. He had four or five years left on his contract at Barça and didn't need to leave," insisted Rivaldo. Although he doesn't think it would take long for everything to be smoothed out should he complete a sensational return. "The fans didn't want him to go. I think 70% wanted him to stay but he's got a strong personality and if he returns, puts the ball in the back of the net, beats Real Madrid and wins a Champions League the people will forget that."
Rivaldo believes a move would be perfect for both clubs. "The supporters want to win the Champions League and play well, to keep their style, and many are frustrated due to the sudden changes. He's 27 and has a lot of years left in him yet. He could win another treble, it would be incredible."
And there's concern Real Madrid might offer even more money to land Neymar. "I don't know what is going to happen but I'd prefer he was in Barcelona rather than in Madrid. If he goes to Madrid, that isn't good for Barça. If he goes there, they'll be really strong."
COUTINHO MUST DECIDE
The legend also spoke about Coutinho and his struggles at the Camp Nou, particularly in the last 12 months. "He's a good player but he needs to show his football, the same that he did at Liverpool." As for a potential departure: "He needs to show that he's willing to change. If he doesn't believe he can rediscover that form he showed for Liverpool, he should speak with the president and look to find an agreement with a strong team in England."
ARTHUR MUST TAKE RISKS
On Arthur, who faded after an injury disrupted his bright start to the season: "He just needs to take a few more risks. He doesn't make many errors with the ball but you need to take more risks and not just think about Messi and Suarez. If you make one, two or three mistakes in a match it doesn't matter."
