Neymar Comments on Lionel Messi Injury, Barcelona's Fans and Ballon d'Or Hopes

Brazilian superstar Neymar has revealed Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi's injury needs to be treated delicately as he works toward a return to the first team, but the Argentina wizard is feeling good about his rehabilitation to full health.  

In an interview with Mundo Deportivo (h/t Marca), the 23-year-old forward gave an update on Messi's current state of affairs: "Leo is OK. It's an injury that needs to be handled carefully, but he looks in good spirits and seems very happy with his recovery."

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The Blaugrana have suffered in Messi's absence, with performances and results sliding dramatically.

The Camp Nou fanbase have been quick to let their displeasure be known, with whistles and jeers coming from the crowd as manager Luis Enrique's side fight for form. On the topic, Neymar said, per Mundo Deportivo: "We don't like being booed by the crowd. It's part of football, but it makes us very sad because we try to do all we can to make sure Barcelona win. The best is for them to be with us like they were last season. For them to believe right up to the last minute. If they are with us, we are stronger."

The forward also spoke about his opinion regarding his own chances of attaining the upcoming Ballon d'Or at the end of the calendar year, saying he believes "winning it while Messi is around is a tall order" and that he thinks his "idol" is the only viable contender, as reported by Mundo Deportivo:

"

He's the big favourite. This year's Ballon d'Or already has Messi's name on it, the best player in the world is already decided. Leo deserves it for everything he has done. Winning a Ballon d'Or while Messi is around is a tall order. I hope to develop by playing alongside Messi, who is the best and an idol for me. And if I learn enough, maybe someday I'll win it.

"

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Neymar has struggled to lead Barca with Luis Suarez from the front, but his goal return has once again been good. He has scored four goals from his first six La Liga games, according to WhoScored.com, but it hasn't been enough to keep the treble champions at the top of the standings. 

Much speculation has surrounded the player in recent weeks, with Manchester United said to be ready to swoop, per Sport (h/t Colin Harvey of the Daily Star,) but the Brazil international's reputation is in question as Barca struggle without their main man.

Football writer Rafael Hernandez believes Neymar's form has plummeted to the level of Chelsea's Eden Hazard, who has also endured an inconsistent start to the season:

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Barca need Neymar to find his best form quickly, with Messi likely to be absent for a further period of time.

The Brazilian is a mercurial talent at his best, but he struggles to be the leader Enrique needs—just at the moment when he can take centre stage from Messi. 

Suarez has found similar issues in Messi's absence, but despite his young age, it is Neymar who is charged with taking the team back to the top of La Liga. 

His superstar status weighs heavy on his shoulders, but the player has been groomed for responsibility since the advent of his career.