Brazilian Star Reveals Ongoing Bond With Former Barcelona and PSG Teammate as Messi Continues to Shine on World Cup Stage
Neymar has offered a heartfelt glimpse into his close friendship with Lionel Messi, describing the Argentina captain as an even better human being away from football than the genius millions admire on the pitch.
The Brazilian superstar, who spent six seasons alongside Messi at both Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, spoke warmly about the relationship they built over years of shared triumphs, challenges and unforgettable moments.
When an interviewer remarked that Messi was already “an incredible person on the pitch,” Neymar’s response highlighted the qualities that teammates have praised throughout the Argentine’s career.
“Messi is an even better person off the pitch.”
“He’s already an incredible person on the pitch, so imagine what he’s like off it!”
Neymar explained that getting to know Messi personally remains one of the greatest privileges of his football career.
“That’s why I’m so happy to have known him and played alongside him. He’s a great friend.”
The comments add another chapter to one of modern football’s most celebrated friendships.
The pair first became teammates at Barcelona in 2013, forming the legendary “MSN” attacking trio alongside Luis Suárez. Together they helped Barcelona win numerous trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Their partnership was not only devastating on the field but also developed into a genuine friendship that endured long after Neymar’s record-breaking move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
In 2021, the two reunited in Paris, where they again shared a dressing room before Messi’s departure to Inter Miami in 2023.
According to Neymar, that bond remains as strong as ever.
“We’ve talked a lot, and we’ve spoken during these past few days as well. He knows how much I love and admire him.”
The timing of Neymar’s remarks comes as Messi continues to add new chapters to his extraordinary career at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentine captain has once again become one of the tournament’s defining figures, leading Argentina into the knockout stages while extending numerous records, including his status as the competition’s all-time leading goalscorer and the player with the most FIFA World Cup Man of the Match awards.
For Neymar, however, Messi’s greatness extends far beyond statistics, trophies or records.
Those who have shared a dressing room with the Argentine often point to his humility, professionalism and loyalty as qualities that match his footballing brilliance.
Over the years, teammates from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina have repeatedly spoken about Messi’s quiet leadership and the respect he commands within every squad he joins.
Neymar’s latest tribute reinforces that image.
While fans around the world continue to marvel at Messi’s performances on the field, one of football’s biggest stars believes the most remarkable version of Messi is the one few people get to see.
A football icon to millions. A friend to those closest to him. And, in Neymar’s words, an even better person off the pitch than on it.