The manager of FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick, refused to comment on rumors linking Neymar Jr. with a potential return to the Catalan club next season. In a press conference ahead of their match against Portuguese side Benfica, in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, Flick stayed focused on his current work. "It's not my job. I am focused on this team. We have great opportunities, and we want to make the most of them. We need to stay focused. That’s a task for other people at the club," said the German coach.

The rumors about Neymar's return

In recent days, several media outlets have suggested that the Brazilian forward could return to Barcelona, where he played from 2013 to 2017. During his time at the club, Neymar won a Champions League, a Club World Cup, two La Liga titles, and other major trophies.

After leaving Saudi football, Neymar returned to Santos, where he has shown glimpses of his quality, including an amazing Olympic goal he scored on February 23. He has also just been included in the Dorival Júnior's pre-selection list for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.

Benfica and Barcelona in the Champions League

Meanwhile, Barcelona is preparing to face Benfica, who eliminated Monaco in the previous round. The Catalan side, who finished second in their group, will play the first leg on Wednesday in Lisbon, with the return leg scheduled for March 11 in Barcelona.