'Calm down' - Neymar hits back at Rivaldo's World Cup claim as Brazil legend puts Al-Hilal star in his place

Neymar was asked on Romario's podcast which player he would replace in each of Brazil's three latest World Cup triumphs in 2002, 1994, and 1970. The 32-year-old stated he believed he could replace ex-Barcelona star Rivaldo in the 2002 squad, and the Brazil great disagreed in a lengthy social media post.

He wrote on Instagram: "I heard @neymarjr say that in his prime, he could have played in my place at the 2002 World Cup. Honestly, I recognize his talent and quality, and I even believe he could have been in that team, but playing in my place would have been a different story. With all the respect and admiration I have for him, I can say with 100% certainty that it wouldn't happen. At that time, I was so focused, determined and hungry to win the world title that no one, no matter how good they were at the height of their career, could take my place. I say that with a lot of love and respect, but also with the confidence of someone who lived through that moment and knows how hard I fought to become world champion."

On social media, Neymar retorted: "Calm down, my friend. All Brazilian players who participated in the World Cup dedicated and focused 100%. Some achieved the ultimate goal, while others, unfortunately, did not, and that’s part of football. I have always respected you and will never diminish the merit of what you brought to Brazilian football. It was simply a choice among the three, and you wouldn’t want me to replace Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, right?"

Both Rivaldo and Neymar are greats of Brazilian football and have done great things for their country. This was nothing personal from Neymar, however, as he claimed he would take Tostao's spot alongside Pele and Jairzinho in 1970 and left out Dunga to play with Romario and Bebeto in 1994.

While this debate may rage on, Neymar will hope to be back playing for Al-Hilal soon after another injury.