Former Argentina international Javier Pastore has openly criticized Brazilian player Neymar, suggesting that he doesn’t exhibit the same level of dedication and passion for football as other legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Neymar, once touted as the heir to Messi and Ronaldo’s legacy, has fallen short of reaching their extraordinary heights in the sport.
Pastore, who was Neymar’s teammate during their time at Paris Saint-Germain and now plays for Al Hilal, believes that despite possessing exceptional talent, Neymar lacks the same relentless drive and hunger displayed by football’s greatest icons.
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In Pastore’s view, Neymar’s commitment to the game falls short of the 100% dedication seen in true footballing legends.
“If he had wanted, he would fight for the Ballon d’Or against Messi, Cristiano, and whoever, but he lives his life in a different way. He does not live for football 100%,” Pastore told French media outlet LaNacion.
“I love him very much. I have written to him quite a bit now, during his injury. At first, I expected someone arrogant, and I was wrong.”
