Brazil superstar Neymar defends party lifestyle

Brazil superstar Neymar admits he is not perfect, but says he will not stop partying just to appease his critics.

The Barcelona attacker will lead his country at the 2016 Olympic Games, having enjoyed much of his off-season in the United States with various celebrities.

A journalist seemed to criticize Neymar’s commitment to the national team by questioning his lifestyle and discipline on the pitch, but the 24-year-old insists he is simply enjoying himself like any footballer his age would.

“You have to look at the things that I do on the pitch. Outside of that are private things. When I’m off the field, it’s my private life. (Neymar asks journalist look in his eyes as he answers the question). You have to judge me on the field. I have no problem talking about cards or expulsions.

“I have a private life, I am 24 years old. I’m new, I have my achievements, my own things. I’m very quiet about it, you can criticize me, I have my mistakes too. I’m not a perfect guy. I also like to go out, have fun with my friends. I have family and friends. Why can not I go out and enjoy parties?

“Yes, I can do it and I will. If I am aware of my duty for the next day, I see no problem. That’s my private life. But ont the pitch is another story. When I first step on the pitch, I always give my all, I always try to do my best. But yes, I still make mistakes and it is normal for a human being,” he charged.

“Not because I’m 24 and I’m one of the most experienced here, I am not perfect. Actually, I’m learning more and more with these younger boys. I think your question, in my opinion, was very spiteful, but it’s ok. I want you to put yourself in my shoes, you are 24 years old, winning all I have, with everything that I’ve earned. Would you not do the same as me?” he added.

Meanwhile, Neymar compared the Selecao’s reliance on him at Rio 2016 to Barca’s dependence on Lionel Messi, insisting there is no shame in the Argentine being the main man for Luis Enrique’s side.

“I never like to talk about myself, but I will quote the example of Barcelona. We have great players, but is it possible to say that we not depend on [Lionel] Messi?

“Of course we depend of him. We always want to rely on the best players. We do not have any shame in playing for him and he is the guy. We have to keep our feet grounded and know his importance to the team. I’m not talking about the national team because I do not like to talk about myself. But for me, I always want to have to depend on him on Barca.”