From Barcelona to Brazil: Xavi visits old mentor Neymar | OneFootball

Some friendships begin by playing football down the local park – others at La Masia. When a young Xavi was still walking the hallways of the FC Barcelona academy, Neymar Jr. was already one of the biggest stars in world football. Although their paths first crossed very early on in Xavi's footballing journey, their connection still remains strong today. "Neymar was like a father figure for me back then," Xavi once said in an interview. "I will always be grateful to him for that."

Now, many years later and thousands of miles from where their relationship began, the two reunited during the Red Bulls' Brazil tour in Praia Grande – an emotional meeting between two old friends and footballing maestros.

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Pelé, Neymar, Jogo Bonito

A short flight for a big moment

The journey itself was already a memorable one, as Xavi hopped into a helicopter to visit the "Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr.", the Brazilian star's passion project launched together with his family in his hometown of Praia Grande in 2014. They reunited like brothers – a warm embrace, big smiles. It was like they were back in Barcelona together.

Xavi of course didn't come empty-handed. He presented Neymar with RBL's new home jersey, complete with our exclusive Brazil printing. "It's a very special shirt," said Neymar. "Xavi is just such a great guy. I'm really excited to show him my project today, something incredibly close to my heart."

A place of hope

They visited different classrooms together, passing by wide-eyed boys and girls. Neymar showed Xavi what the INJR project is all about: education, sport, culture – providing real prospects for around 12,000 people from underprivileged backgrounds. Football isn't just a game here – it offers hope.

In amongst all the action are the two superstars. The children stare, laugh and cheer. A few even get to ask questions to the players. Of course, the visit ended out on the football pitch. A little kickabout for old times' sake, not forgetting a little showboating to wow the kids.

A bond built to last

There's more than just a few training sessions together in Paris that connects Xavi and Neymar Jr. Their journey goes back so much further, beginning in Barcelona and continuing in the French capital. Now another chapter has been added in Brazil.

For Xavi, Neymar Jr. is more than a childhood idol. "Neymar was like a father figure for me back then. I will always be grateful to him for that," he once said during his PSG days. "One of my biggest dreams was sharing the pitch with my idol – he is still a very important person in my life even today." That bond was clear for all to see during their latest reunion.

Neymar Jr. played an important role in Xavi's early career, offering guidance and support as he found his way in professional football. Their relationship extended beyond the pitch and was marked by mutual respect and affection.

A new stage for old friends

Tonight sees their relationship put to a different kind of test. For the first time, they will share the pitch as opponents in RB Leipzig's friendly match against Santos FC (live on Red Bull TV and SporTV). Two friends playing the game that they love together. One has already made his mark on football history – the other is just beginning to write his own.

Whether idol or companion – some bonds last a lifetime.

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