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Barcelona manager Luis Enrique rubbishes speculation of Neymar's sensational switch to Real Madrid

Neymar, the Ballon d’Or contender this year is a subject of interest for many big clubs

Recent rumours have linked Brazil and Barcelona sensation Neymar Jr with a move to Real Madrid. But his club head coach Luis Enrique has dismissed such notions saying that there is not a single iota of truth in the speculation.

Reports suggested that Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez is after the Barcelona star and wants to shower him with the honour of becoming a Madridista by bringing him to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Neymar has appeared in 18 matches so far this season in all competitions. He has had seven assists to his name and he has netted 16 times. Neymar happens to be one of the three contenders this year for the Ballon d’Or. The other two being Ronaldo and Messi. 

His contract with Barcelona runs till 2018 and there are already talks of a renewal ongoing. At such a moment Luis Enrique has been swift enough to nullify rumours. He told reporters that,

"Those are just parts of the typical football rumour mill."

If this deal does take place then it will be very similar to what happened when the great Luis Figo left Barcelona for Real Madrid in a then world record transfer fee of $60.1 million. Figo was a successful player at Barcelona. He was also the club captain. However, in the year 2000 the world saw Figo hang up the Barcelona jersey and take on the white of Madrid.

His switch to Madrid signalled the beginning of the Galactico era and Madrid started signing up a star player every year. Figo did receive the Ballon d’Or in 2000 but it was largely owing to his contribution in Barcelona. He had become the focal point of the rivalry between the two clubs. The Barcelona fans were furious.

Enrique optimistic about title chances

Barcelona have the same points as Atletico Madrid, which is 35 but they are ahead of both the Madrid clubs in terms of goal differance. Barcelona also have their position secured and safe in the Champions League and the Copa Del Rey. The atmosphere in the club is confident and motivating. Luis Enrique is optimistic about the future performances of his squad as they are about to begin the second half of their campaign this season. He also told reporters,

"I've always said in these situations, especially after seeing them train yesterday [Monday] and today [Tuesday], that everyone looks fresh and hungry and ambitious.

"I don't think we could be any better. I won't be extremely optimistic but I see them on the right path at the end of the year.

"We'll see if we can convert that into performances on the pitch."

Barcelona recently emerged victorious in the Club World Cup that was held in Japan earlier this month. They defeated Argentina club side River Plate 3-0 to become the winners. They are to face Real Betis on Wednesday where they will battle it out to remain the league toppers of La Liga.

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