The Selecao captain is in the form of his life since his Barcelona colleague's injury and is ready to make Superclasico history in Thursday's World Cup qualifier.
Brazil captain Neymar expected to greet a good friend in the center circle of el Monumental on Thursday when the Selecao meet Argentina in the highlight of South America’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
But a knee injury means his Barcelona colleague Lionel Messi will have to sit this one out.
Coach Dunga, midfielder Lucas Lima and goalkeeper Cassio have all played down Messi’s absence when talking to the media this week, insisting their old rival still poses a significant threat, but from Messi’s shadow it’s hoped the returning Neymar (back from a four-match suspension) will emerge once more.