The former World Player of the Year believes his fellow Brazilian needs a name change if he is to follow in the footsteps of illustrious countrymen
Barcelona forward Neymar has been told to consider adding a letter ‘R’ to the start of his name in an effort to earn the honour of being considered the best player on the planet.
The bizarre, but tongue-in-cheek, suggestion has been offered by fellow Brazilian and former World Player of the Year, Kaka.
The ex-Milan and Real Madrid playmaker had no problem seeing his talents recognised without following his own advice, although his full name is Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite.
Maybe, then, there is something in names beginning with ‘R’ when it comes to Brazilian greats.
Down the years the likes of Romario, Ronaldo, Rivelino, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho have all graced the very top of the game.
If Neymar is to do likewise, he has been made aware of what he needs to do.
Kaka told Record TV: “With everything that he’s done at Barcelona, Neymar could well be next in line to be the best player in the world.
“But I think if he changed his name to ‘Reymar’, he’d have an even better chance. All the successful Brazilians begin with the letter ‘R’.”
While discussing a potential heir to his former throne, Kaka has also discussed his international future.
Now 34 years of age and turning out in MLS for Orlando City, the World Cup winner has not figured for his country since May 2016.
Kaka, who has 92 caps to his name, said: “My relationship with the national team has always been good.
“Now, at my age, it’d be a mutual agreement if it were good for me and the team.”
GOAL.com