One of the world’s biggest stars will not be playing in this summer’s Copa America Centenario, if Barcelona has the final word.
The Spanish club wants Brazilian star Neymar to play for his nation during the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but is vetoing his participation in the Copa America tournament in the U.S.
“Convincing Barca (to allow Neymar to play) for both (tournaments) is impossible. We are aware of the importance, but our view is that players need to have the rest coming from two strong seasons,” Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu told reporters on Saturday.
Barcelona’s intentions have reportedly already been conveyed to Brazil national team head coach Dunga. However, the Copa America competition is an official FIFA event, meaning Barcelona would be forced into releasing Neymar should Dunga forgo the club’s intentions and include him in his squad to compete in the tournament.
Neymar finished third in the voting for the most recent FIFA Ballon d’Or award, and has scored 21 goals and provided 10 assists for Barcelona during the 2015-16 La Liga campaign.
What do you think of this development? Will you be disappointed if Neymar misses this summer’s Copa America?
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