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Josep Maria Bartomeu hails Lionel Messi, Neymar

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 13 July 2014

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu says that the Spanish club's attacking duo Lionel Messi and Neymar have been the two stars of the 2014 World Cup.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu believes that Lionel Messi and Neymar have been the two stars of the World Cup this summer.

Messi has captained Argentina to the final, while Neymar scored four times for Brazil before being forced out of the tournament in the quarter-finals with a serious back injury.

"Whatever happens in the final, Messi and Neymar have been the two big stars of this World Cup," Bartomeu told the club's official website.

"Until the injury, [Neymar] was having an incredible tournament. Despite his youth, his progress as a footballer and his leadership made a mark on the Brazil team.

"We have been close to him since the injury, the medical services have been in contact with him and his family. It was a nasty shock for all football fans, especially those of Brazil and Barca. I hope he gets fit again soon and I wish him all the best. He is very young and will have plenty more chances to win things for his country."

Neymar and Messi will be joined by Luis Suarez in the Barcelona attack next season.