Brazil, Barca and beyond: Story behind Neymar's Ballon d'Or nomination

Neymar is the newest addition to Barcelona’s squad of superstars. The Brazilian’s arrival to a squad consisting of Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta and Xavi was a move waiting to happen for several years. After confirming his move to the Spanish giants, Neymar was majestic with all eyes on him as Brazil swept aside all in front of them to claim the Confederations Cup on home soil in their World Cup warm-up. The forward is one of the most exciting talents in world football and he’s showing why as Barcelona top La Liga.

Major honours this year

Neymar, before arriving in Catalunya, led Brazil to the Confederations Cup after beating Spain 3-0 in the final over the summer. Brazil won all three group games against Italy, Mexico and Japan with Neymar scoring, with style and swagger, in all three matches. He failed to score in the semi-final victory over Uruguay but scored the second goal in the victory against world-beaters Spain. Neymar was magical and won the Golden Ball award for the tournament’s best player. He also won the Supercopa de Espana at Barcelona after beating Atletico Madrid on away goals – Neymar scored the important goal in the first leg. A major title with Brazil and a trophy in his first weeks at Barcelona represents a successful year for the Brazilian pin-up.

Who is Neymar?

The 21-year-old was born in Mogi das Creuzes, Sao Paolo to Neymar da Silva Sr. and Nadine Santos. His father was also a footballer who became his advisor as Neymar Jr’s talents became evident.

“My father has been by my side since I was little. He takes care of things, my finances and my family,” revealed the Barcelona man.

In 2003, the family moved to Sao Vicente so Neymar could play for youth side, Portguesa Santista. Later that year, they moved to Santos as Neymar joined the club where he would forge his reputation. Neymar’s talents were so clear that he was paid well enough to buy a new family home and allow the family to live comfortably. At the age of 16, Neymar was being paid around £36,000 per week. After a successful four years in Brazil, Neymar moved to Barcelona for around £50 million. He has already begun the process of forging a a frighteningly potent relationship with four-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi.

Key stats

Neymar is a left-sided forward so is integral to Barcelona’s system of playing a front three. He is both an important goal scorer and chance creator. So far this season in nine matches, the Brazilian has created 15 chances in La Liga, completing six assists, the joint-highest in the division which boasts some of Europe’s best creative talent.

Chances created by Neymar in La Liga this season

Does he deserve his nomination?

Simply, yes. The Brazilian’s talents have been well-known for quite some time now but his emergence on the world scene during the Confederations Cup and his impact at Barcelona shows the hype around him is justified, and then some. Neymar is a superb footballer with an ability to manipulate the ball at full pace in the tightest of situations. He has the ‘football brain’ as well as the physical capabilities and has demonstrated both with club and country over the past year. He is excellent in big games, proving again with his goal in the latest El Clasico, as Barca beat Real Madrid 2-1. He was the outstanding player at the Confederations Cup as Brazil toppled the seemingly untouchable Spain team.

Does he have a chance of winning?

No. He may come inside the top six players but Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are well ahead in the pecking order of the world’s best players. He has had a fantastic 2013 but Neymar won’t win it this year. In future, after completing a full season in La Liga and perhaps starring in a world cup winning side for A Selecao, he may climb above his Barcelona team-mate to be named the best footballer on the planet.