‘I love to play in an Indian league’

And, at the ripe old age of 36, he can still slice the ball through teams like knife through butter. On his third visit to the country and first to Chennai, thanks to Premier Futsal, the Brazilian playmaker who started his playing days with futsal shared his thoughts on the futsal, Messi and more in an interaction. 

I received the invitation happily because my roots are in futsal. I know the potential in India and it also gave me an opportunity to meet my friends — Figo, Falcao, Salgado. It is great to be here, helping in promoting the sport and making it big.

The local kids have a lot of potential and playing with the legends, not only football but also futsal talents – is a huge motivation. The talent in India looks good and a future is positive. My future is uncertain but I feel comfortable with India, so playing in football leagues is not discounted.

Unfortunately, in this generation they didn’t fit themselves yet, they have been a bit unlucky. After Ronaldo, we had Adriano who was also an amazing striker. We have to ensure more and more will have to come. This scenario that Brazil are facing is responsible for this, not the style of football.

I believe that the same attention and dedication I have for Messi, he is doing the same for Neymar. It is very important for an experienced player to show the way and share the journey with a young player and Messi is doing that. This is why Neymar is adapting and playing very well in Barcelona.

For me, this does not change anything. (Messi losing in four finals). He is still the best. Messi’s leaving the game is a huge loss for football.

It’s very important to have experienced and young players to make a good team. Neymar is a talent and is a good friend. He is one of the top players in the world and will be an important player.