Brazil legend Pele believes Santos star Neymar lacks the physical presence to be a success in the English Premier League.
The 20-year-old has been linked with clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea in the past few months, but his illustrious countryman believes moving to England would be the wrong choice.
“I disagree that Neymar should leave for Europe now. Last year Neymar’s agent spoke to his father, because he had an offer to go to England,” Pele told Fox Sports.
“When I found out, I went to see them and told them it wasn’t the right time to make the leap into English football, because it’s very tough and Neymar, who is an excellent player, isn’t physically up to it.”
Pele compared his compatriot to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, and feels Neymar is better technically than the Argentine.
“Neymar has more in his locker than Messi technically speaking,” Pele said.
“He can attack down the left or right, he can hit the ball with both feet, he’s good in the air – Messi is a lot more experienced. They’re both excellent players.”
