World Football's Instagram Highlights of the Week

The amazing rise of social media has gotten to the point that if a footballer is not registered on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, they are seemingly out of touch.

Of course, like most things, there are pros and cons to registering on social media, and although Instagram is one of the newer additions, it continues to provide superb moments with stunning visuals.

Here, we've compiled a list which contains some of the best moments from World Football, posted by some famous users on Instagram.

Take a look and let us know what you think. Also, we'd love for you to let us know if we missed any out.

Neymar Posts Tribute to Fans Before Barcelona Move

One of the most in-demand football youngsters in the world, Neymar has finally chosen his new path after deciding to leave Santos.

As a result, he posted a tribute on his official Instagram account on Monday evening to the fans with an emotional message. It comes to the fans comes after he was booed (Reuters) by Flamengo fans in his final match as a Santos player in the goalless draw on Sunday. Despite that, he's issued a message thanking the fans.

"And here ends this wonderful passage in a special club. Thanks for all the compliments...I will treasure these moments throughout my life."

Neymar is poised to sign a five-year deal with La Liga champions Barcelona after nine years at the Brazilian club (BBC), with the Guardian suggesting the Catalans could pay up to €60 million (£51.3 million) for his services.

Thousands Cram to See Atletico Madrid's Copa Del Rey Parade

A superb shot taken here by the club's official Instagram feed, thousands of Atletico Madrid fans poured into the city centre.

The sheer volume of people here shows that it's not just Los Merengues who have fans to celebrate success with. As you may or may not be able to see, the queue of supporters goes all the way down the street.

Parading their first win over city rivals Real Madrid since 1999, Diego Simeone's side savoured their 2-1 success in the Copa del Rey final and enjoyed the moment with the club's fans. 

And the club showed their appreciation for the support with their message in Spanish translating to: "La Puerta del Sol (the street) is red and white. Thanks Atleticos!"

Blues on Tour: David Luiz Takes Youngster Andreas Christensen Under His Wing

After playing in both of Chelsea's games against Manchester City in St. Louis and New York, it seems the future could be bright for young Andreas Christensen.

His performances for the youth side in the NextGeneration Series and Under-21 side earned him rave reviews from coach Dermot Drummy, and along with other youngsters Nathan Ake, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christensen has made the step up to the first team.

The defender only turned 17 in April but has shown signs of maturity, with some impressive performances against the likes of Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko.

And here's a picture of Chelsea's lighthearted character David Luiz showing his faith in the Danish youngster, posting a picture on his personal Instagram account. 

The Brazilian left a small message of support for his understudy saying: "He definitely will have a great future! My friend @ac 1996 #NYC #MatchTime #GoodLuck."    

Chelsea Midfielder Juan Mata Turns Photographer in St. Louis

In a week where football comes to a close, Juan Mata's visual of Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Mo. shows that it's not just about what happens on the pitch.

This superb picture shows the height of the stadium and the stands packed with excited fans. Chelsea went down 4-3 to Manchester City despite taking a three-goal lead in the game.

Mata himself played some part in the game, but he will be more than happy with his photographic skills after this impressive capture.

On his personal Instagram account, he added in the footnote: "Thank you St. Louis! Amazing atmosphere!"

Dutch Starlet Adam Maher Shows off Wacky Haircut

Well, what do we have here? AZ Alkmaar midfielder Adam Maher, who is representing Holland at the European Under-21 Championship in Israel this summer, has decided to get a new hairstyle for the big event.

Maher is expected to leave AZ this transfer window, with Arsenal and Manchester City reported to be keen (Metro), and is one of the Eredivisie club's most important players despite the fact that the Moroccan-born midfielder is just 19 years old.

But it seems that while his technical skills are impressive, his style is perhaps less so.

Maher has recently posted an entry onto his own Instagram account of his new haircut, and it's extravagant to say the least.

Enough of what we think. We'll let you be the judge...