Neymar returns to Barcelona? Deco: It's not just an economic issue, sometimes history doesn't repeat itself

Barcelona sporting director Deco said on Wednesday there are currently no plans to bring back 33-year-old Brazilian star Neymar.

Neymar played for Barcelona from 2013 to 2017 with Messi, Suarez and others, and won 1 Champions League, 1 Club World Cup, 2 La Liga, 1 European Super Cup, 3 Copa del Rey and 1 Spanish Super Cup. Recently, there have been rumors that he is about to return to Barcelona. In response to this, Deco said in an interview with Brazilian TNT Sports: "This is not entirely an economic issue."

"I'm a fan of Neymar," he added. "For me, Neymar is the greatest player of the last 10 to 20 years. He is a phenomenon and he is still in great form."

"Neymar must first rediscover his love for football and enjoy it again. I think there is no better place for him than Brazil, especially his hometown club Santos. I cheer for him and hope he is happy because the Brazilian national team needs him, and anyone who loves football also wants to see Neymar happy."

"We have not yet finalised our plans for next season and many issues remain to be resolved. There is no doubt that Neymar can always play a key role in the team. But if a return happens one day, it must be ensured that the decision is in the best interests of Neymar and the club."

"Building a team requires balance and rationality. For me, Neymar is a phenomenal player who left a deep mark at Barcelona. He did everything he should do and won the honors he deserved, but sometimes history does not repeat itself."

Dirk concluded: "We can never predict the future, but I think now is neither the time for Barcelona to discuss welcoming Neymar back nor the time for Neymar to consider returning. We have been following him. I am happy to see that he is happy in Santos."

Since returning to Santos in January this year, Neymar has made 7 appearances, scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists. His contract with Santos was originally scheduled to expire in June this year, and his current priority is to recover his physical and technical condition as soon as possible.