Neymar who was the hero of the Brazilian national team as they claimed gold in the football tournament has in a surprising move decided to step down as captain of the team.
Neymar became captain under Dunga following the 2014 World Cup, in which hosts Brazil were demolished 7-1 by Germany in the semifinals — a match Neymar missed through injury.
The Barcelona forward took the winning spot kick that won Brazil the match and gold and after that he said, “Today I have become a champion, and I give up the captain’s armband.
“It was an honour to be captain, but from today I stop being captain. I will send a message to [senior coach] Tite that, from now, he can look for another captain.
“I do not like to put one title above the other — every competition I contest and win is important.
“Of course, it had great importance to Brazil and thank God we did it — after a lot of struggling, work and concentration.”
The prolific goalscorer also thanked his friends, family and colleagues for all their help stating that no one won alone.
Brazilian coach Rogerio Micale was impressed with Neymar’s decision and felt it showed a new maturity.
“It demonstrates maturity on Neymar’s part. He is a leader in the national team, he is dedicated,” said Micale.
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