This is why Neymar opted for Barca

The Brazilian joined Barcelona in 2013 from Santos. Last week he signed a new deal which keeps him until 2021 at the club.

His father revealed in an interview with 'Cope' the inital reason for joining the Spanish giants. The reason was: Messi!

"We all know who Messi is and what he means. He is the idol of my son and for him is a pleasure being at his side. He is always happy for playing together and he is playing here for Messi," he explained.

Furthermore his father revealed his opinion about the Argentine and Ronaldo and their eternal rivalry.

"If Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo never existed probably Neymar never existed too; the same with Pele and Maradona, both inspired a lot of players.

He added: "Messi deserves the Ballon d'Or".