Story By: Juan Mayes, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Golder’s News And Sport 

Neymar has said he “would love to play” in both the Copa America and the Olympic Games this summer but admitted it might be difficult after he tried the same in 2016 but “Barcelona did not let me”.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward Neymar, 27, made the comments during a post-match interview with local media after PSG’s 3-3 draw with Monaco on Sunday 12th January.

When asked if he wanted to participate in the upcoming Copa America or Olympic Games, Neymar expressed his desire to represent Brazil in both saying: “What do you think I am going to say?

“Both? Well, of course, I would love to play in both but I know it is going to be difficult. In 2016 I wanted to play everything but Barca refused.

“I will have to speak about it with the club (PSG) but I would like to help the Brazilian national team.”

Neymar did not participate in the Copa America in 2016 but was able to help Brazil win the gold medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games.

The Copa America is set to take place between 12th June and 12th July in Colombia and Argentina. Brazil are the defending champions after their 3-1 victory over Peru in the competition’s last edition held in Brazil.

The Olympic Games will take place just two weeks later between 24th July and 9th August in the Japanese capital city of Tokyo.

Neymar’s greatest achievements with the ‘Selecao’ include winning the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013 and his Olympic gold medal. He missed out on the country’s Copa America victory last year through injury.

He is also the country’s third-top goalscorer in history scoring 61 times in 101 appearances. Brazil legend Ronaldo is second with 62 goals.

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