Ganso: I don't even want to think about being separated from Neymar

May 16, 2012 9:26:00 PM

The No. 10 is determined to keep playing with his close friend and team-mate for as long as possible, after the two celebrated a third straight Paulista title on Sunday

Santos star Ganso has once more spoken of his friendship with 'little brother' Neymar, and admitted that he would like to play his entire career alongside the sensational striker.

The pair picked up the 2012 Paulista Championship on Sunday afternoon with a thumping 4-2 win over Guarani, in which Neymar netted a double to ensure a third successive State success for the Peixe. Both the 20-year-old and Ganso were on form on Thursday night as well, with the two hitting twice each in a crushing 8-0 Copa Libertadores victory at the expense of Bolivar.

Speaking one day before Santos travel to Buenos Aires for a crunch quarter-final against Velez Sarsfield, their No. 10 explained just how important his relationship with his club and international team-mate is for him on the pitch.

"He is my 'little brother'. He helps me a lot on and off the field, and I also try to help him the best I can," Ganso explained to Globoesporte.

"That is the key, that friendship and brotherhood. One helps the other and it is important. We never talk about [being separated], I don't even want to think about. If it happens one day, it just leaves more for the future."

Neymar has repeatedly committed his future to the Vila Belmiro club until 2014, while Ganso has been far more reserved in talking about his plans. The 22-year-old, however, argues that nobody knows who is more likely to make the first move to European football.

"I don't know who will leave first. I hope to be by his side for a long time; and if possible, my entire career. I could never imagine playing against him, even though I am not a defender," he laughed.

Santos will take on the 2011 Argentine Clausura champions on Thursday evening, in Velez's Jose Amalfitani home.

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