Neymar da Silva Santos, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has made an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional skills, versatility, and impact on both club and national teams. One aspect of his career that often garners attention is his ability to make tackles, which have been crucial in securing victories for both Al-Hilal and Brazil.
In this article, we will delve into Neymar's number of tackles throughout his career and examine how these efforts have contributed to his success both on and off the field.
Neymar's Early Career
When he first joined Al-Hilal in 2011, Neymar was already a seasoned player who had established himself as one of the best strikers in the world. He quickly became a key figure in the team's attack, scoring numerous goals and making a significant contribution to their successes. However, it wasn't until his move to Barcelona in 2017 that Neymar fully realized his potential as a defender and began to make tackles with increasing frequency.
Impactful Tackles in Barcelona
At Barcelona, Neymar's tackling abilities took center stage. The Brazilian striker was known for his physical presence on the pitch and his ability to dominate midfield battles. In his first season with the Catalan giants, Neymar made over 500 tackles, which set a new record for the club. This impressive statistic not only demonstrated Neymar's defensive prowess but also highlighted the importance of his role in protecting the ball from opposition players.
Neymar's Influence on Barcelona
The high number of tackles Neymar made at Barcelona had a profound impact on the team's performance. By dominating midfield and creating space for his teammates, Neymar helped Barcelona maintain possession and control the game. His willingness to get involved in attacking play also allowed him to create opportunities for his forwards, such as Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, to score goals.
Impactful Tackles in Brazil
While Neymar's most notable contributions were made at Barcelona, his tackling abilities also played a vital role in Brazil's success on the international stage. As Brazil prepared for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Neymar was selected to start in every match, including the final against France. Throughout the tournament, Neymar made numerous tackles, helping his team to secure victory and lift the trophy.
Conclusion
Neymar's number of tackles throughout his career has been remarkable, particularly at Barcelona where he made over 500 in his first season. These efforts have contributed significantly to the team's success, both on and off the field. Whether it was his physical presence on the pitch or his ability to create space for his teammates, Neymar's tackling abilities have been instrumental in securing victories for both Al-Hilal and Brazil. As Neymar continues to evolve as a player, his ability to make tackles will undoubtedly remain a defining characteristic of his game.