Neymar affected by signing controversy - Martino
MADRID, March 15, 2014 (AFP) - Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino believes star striker Neymar's inability to live up to high expectations in his first season with the club could be related to the intense scrutiny of his transfer from Santos.
Sandro Rosell resigned as the club's president in January as he faces legal action for misappropriation of funds, whilst Barca was also charged with tax fraud over the deal.
The Brazilian was also sidelined by an ankle injury for a month at the start of the year
Sandro Rosell resigned as the club's president in January as he faces legal action for misappropriation of funds, whilst Barca was also charged with tax fraud over the deal.
and Martino also thinks that has also played a part in the 22year-old's return of just one goal in 2014.
“Returning after a month out injured it is always difficult to get back into rhythm and then the problems with his signing appeared,” he said at a press conference on Saturday.
“If I had to choose one reason I would focus in the nonsporting issues.” Neymar was only one of a number of Barca players who were well below par as the Catalans lost 1-0 to Valladolid last weekend.
That defeat left them four points adrift of Real Madrid at the top of the table and Martino admitted they must beat Osasuna at home on Sunday to remain in the title fight before traveling to face Real next weekend.