Player Grades for 2016-17: Neymar

The Brazilian playmaker had an excellent season as he took on more creative responsibility which enabled him to flourish.

Statistics

Appearances 45, Goals 20, Assists 19.

Based on the figures alone this is an impressive haul for a season with him nearly averaging either a goal or assist per game. This wasn’t just a case of him being a flat-track bully either because he scored important goals against PSG and Alavés. He also assisted key goals such as the winner against PSG, and Barcelona’s goal in the first El Clásico.

Role

Neymar was tasked with playing on the left side of the front three in a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3 formation, which switched to a 4-4-2 when out of possession. When the team was defending he was tasked with tracking back and covering the left side. This also entailed pressing the ball high in the opposite half if the opposition didn’t transition down the pitch quickly.

This willingness to work so hard defensively for the team was a big part of Barcelona’s success, and their ability to consistently turn up in big games. His selflessness for the team allowed the potent trio to work successfully within the team. Therefore, this is just as much an important factor as his creative contribution when considering his season as a whole.

Next: Player Grades for 2016-17: Jasper Cillessen

Issues

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The only significant issues with him this season have been his temperament, and his performances against Juventus. Getting sent off against Málaga was poor decision-making under pressure by him, and his sarcastic applause for the officials showed that he has much to learn. This specific incident didn’t affect the team as much as it could have because of how well the team, and Lionel Messi in particular, played in El Clásico. There have been plenty of times when he has picked up an unnecessary yellow card because of frustration. He needs to ensure that this is eliminated from his game especially as he becomes a leader in the team. Against Juventus he wasn’t particularly effective, but only Messi came out of the game with an enhanced reputation due to how well-drilled the Italian outfit are.

Conclusion

Overall, he had a superb season even if the Catalans only came away with one major trophy. He has enhanced his personal reputation as well as showing a willingness to fit into a system for the team. This flexibility combined with his immense talent means that he is a key part of the team, and should have plenty of trophy-filled seasons ahead of him.