Seedorf: Don't compare Neymar to Messi and Ronaldo

Seedorf: Don't compare Neymar to Messi & Ronaldo

Feb 15, 2013 4:55:00 PM

The Netherlands veteran feels there is too much pressure placed on the Brazil starlet, though he is confident he could "put on a show" if he moves to Europe

Botafogo midfielder Clarence Seedorf says it is "unfair" to compare Neymar to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Santos attacker's sparkling performances over the last couple of years have led many to hold him in as high a regard as the Barcelona and Real Madrid icons, but Seedorf feels it is premature to place so much on the Brazil international's young shoulders.

"He is very young, the responsibility for the national team doesn't have to be his alone," he told reporters in Brazil. "There must be other people to take over that.

"It's unfair to compare him to Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi. But I like to watch him play, and I hope he has a lot of success in his life."

Neymar has long been touted to move to Europe, with the likes of Chelsea and Bayern Munich thought to be admirers of the 21-year-old, as well as the Liga giants.

Seedorf feels he would become "enriched" by following in the footsteps of the likes of compatriot Robinho, and is confident the Mogi das Cruzes-born player can be a hit in European football.

"He's got a lot of talent," he added. "We met and I liked his energy.

"One day I hope to see him playing in Europe. It enriches a person. Let's see whether he can put on a show there, too. Normally, if a player can really play, he'll adapt.

"Robinho, for example. Physically, they are very much alike, so why wouldn't Neymar be able to make it?"