Jordi Mestre has asserted that Barcelona would prefer Neymar to only play in the Olympic Games – not Copa America – this summer.
Neymar has made no secret of his desire to represent Brazil at both competitions, but the Barca Vice-President believes the No 11 would not be looking out for his or the club’s best interests in doing so.
“[On Nolito], we did more than we should have, but Celta ended the talks and the [January] window shut after that,” he told Mundo Deportivo.
“When the window reopens, we may talk again, but the attitude of the Celta board to me made negotiations difficult.
“[On Luis Enrique possibly leaving for Spain], he’s moved by personal motivations, not interests.
“If he’s interested in the national team then he’ll go. We can’t stop him. He can do what he wants.
“Still, I hope it will be many years [before he does]. Maybe in five years there will be another vacancy, and if I were the Federation, I’d go for him, but it’s up to him.
“We’re sure [of his renewal], but when we talk to him, we’ll know the answer.
“Albert Soler, Robert and Luis Enrique have put in plenty of work throughout the season and they’re fine. [Enrique’s] working with the same intensity but not the same pressure.
“[On Neymar playing at both Copa America and the Olympics], it’s his decision, but we’d like him to only play at the Games.
“Someone has to convince him to play only one of the two. It’s not in either our or his best interests.
“[On how Enrique’s meeting with Brazil boss Dunga went] I don’t know, but if it hasn’t reached me then it’s a good sign.”
