Neymar should join Barca, says Ramalho

08-Mar-2013 10:20:00 PM

The Santos coach believes his star player would flourish at Camp Nou, replicating several Brazilian legends in the process

Santos coach Muricy Ramalho believes Neymar should join Barcelona when he eventually leaves the Brazilian club.

Ramalho said that he expects the 21-year-old to remain at Santos until 2014 when his contract expires, but added that if and when he does leave, he should join the Catalan giants.

"If you are going abroad you should go to Barcelona, because they have a similar playing style to the Brazilian league. If we have to choose something for Neymar I think the best choice is Barcelona," Ramalho told The Network Radio.

"In the history of Barcelona there have always been great Brazilian players and I think Neymar will be one of the greats if he goes there," continued the 57-year-old.

"Ronaldo, Romario and Rivaldo were all among the best in the world when they played for Barcelona, and Neymar has to go to prove that.

"Neymar has a place in the Barcelona team, but it will be difficult because they have great players," he added.

Ramalho also gave his opinion on who the best player in the world is at present.

"Messi is the best in the world, but he has to win the World Cup to reach the level of Maradona and Pele. Cristiano Ronaldo is the second best, then Xavi, Iniesta and Neymar."