A Brazilian club president has sparked debate by claiming Neymar is on the same level as Lionel Messi and is "much better than Cristiano Ronaldo".
Botafogo president Durcesio Mello made the bold statement when addressing rumours linking Neymar with a return to Brazil, amid uncertainty over the 32-year-old's future at Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
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Mello dismissed the idea of bringing Neymar to Botafogo, citing the player's extensive injury history as the primary concern.
The former Barcelona star has endured persistent fitness issues, including a year-long layoff due to a knee ligament injury, only to sustain another setback shortly after his return.
This latest injury is expected to sideline Neymar for an additional four to six weeks and has reportedly led Al Hilal to consider terminating his contract in January.
Speaking to Resenha Alvinegra, Mello was direct in his assessment: "God forbid. Neymar is one of the greatest players I've ever seen play, he's at the same level as Messi and much better than Cristiano Ronaldo, but he ruined his career, which culminated in this injury that lasted a little over a year, and now he's injured again."
Neymar has been linked with a move back to his boyhood club Santos FC, while Major League Soccer outfit Inter Miami have also expressed interest.
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A move to Miami would reunite Neymar with his former Barcelona teammate Messi.