adminNEW Selecao coach Dunga has given star forward Neymar a stern word of warning about his off-the-field antics when representing the Brazilian national team.
Dunga, who replaced Luiz Felipe Scolari as the new manager of the South American giants, understands the quality that Neymar brings to the national team, yet does not want the Barcelona star to feel he is the sole point of focus in the squad.
“Neymar is a worldwide point of reference,” Brazil’s new boss told Globo.
“But we don’t want the team to play for Neymar — we want Neymar to play for the team.
“Brazil will have to create a structure that allows Neymar to make a difference.”
Dunga also criticised the 22-year-old for his continuous marketing campaigns, saying the focus should be on football, and not the player’s image.
“The main focus for all players should be the national team,” said the 50-year-old.
“It should be about football rather than about marketing.
“When Neymar gives an interview, he should be wearing a hat of the national team or no hat at all, but not one with his own logo on it.
“With other teams, there is never any room for such marketing tools and it should be the same for Brazil.
“I don’t want players to be busy with their hair when they’re with the national team. They do it before or after they’re with Brazil. The focus should be on what happens on the pitch.”
Dunga’s first game back in charge of the Selecao in his second stint at the helm will be a friendly against Colombia on 5 September. — kickoff.
Online Reporter