Gerard Pique: "Neymar has earned this rest"
The FC Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique has backed coach Luis Enrique after his decision to allow Neymar to stay in Brazil until after the international break.
He told 'Marca': "Neymar has earned this rest that they have given him. He has earned more days of holiday."
He believes that the clinching of a gold medal at the Olympics, and being decisive in the final under great pressure, means that the Brazil star can relax for a few extra days.
The defender made these comments at the European Poker Stars event.
Pique added: "At the Olympic Games, Neymar showed that he is one of the world's best players because, to be champions, he had to score the decisive penalty. He has won more holiday time."
He stated that his Barça teammate has had to show great mental strength after being heavily criticised after a poor start to the competition:
"It has not been easy for him because to play with the Brazil shirt implies a lot of pressure to win.
"For him and his teammates it has been a very tough tournament and the fact that he can now enjoy some more days of rest was a very good decision."
The Catalan player also spoke about France international, and fellow central defender, Samuel Umtiti:
"He is young, but is very good. He has arrived with a lot of enthusiasm.
"At the centre-back position, there are very good players and, knowing the manager, we will all play."
Regarding the second league game of the season, on Sunday at San Mames, Pique advised that the campaign "has only just begun" but "as always, we will go out to win."
He added that he watched the Athletic defeat to Sporting Gijon at the Molinon, and said that "they are lacking a little rhythm, but so are we. Nobody is at 100% right now."
