Neymar has vowed to help Brazil’s footballers end their run of bad luck on home soil by leading the seleção to the Olympic title at the Rio 2016 Games. Despite winning a record five World Cups, Brazil failed to lift the trophy on both occasions it hosted the tournament, in 1950 and last year, when a 7-1 semi-final defeat by Germany left the host nation in shock. The Olympic Games is the only major international football competition that Brazil has yet to win, and Neymar is determined to make history next year when the event is staged in South America for the first time.

“I think we can learn from everything and if Brazil has still not won this football gold medal that we’re all dreaming of, it’s because our time is yet to come,” said the Barcelona forward in an interview with rio2016.com. “I hope to be part of this group and win the title for the Brazilian people, especially since we’re playing at home. Winning at the Maracanã would be incredible, unforgettable, and you can be sure we’ll give our best on the pitch to make this happen.”

Alexandre Gallo, who will be in charge of the Brazil team at the Rio 2016 Games, has already confirmed that he wants Neymar to fill one of the three slots available for players aged over 23 in Olympic squads. It would be the player’s second Olympic Games, having played at London 2012, when Brazil arrived in the final having won five consecutive matches (scoring three goals in each) but finished with silver medals after losing 2-1 to Mexico at Wembley Stadium. For Neymar and Brazil, 2016 offers a chance of redemption.

“Wearing the Brazilian shirt is indescribable and every time I wear our colours it’s a memorable occasion for me,” said the player, who will turn 23 on 5 February 2015. “This was especially so in London, where I first competed in the Games. It was something that really made a big impression on me and that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.

“I already imagine myself playing in the Olympic Games in my own country – it will be a dream come true. I’ve had the opportunity to play in the Confederations Cup and the World Cup in Brazil. So now the Olympic Games is all that’s missing. It will bring me a lot of joy.”

Neymar scored three goals at London 2012 before Brazil lost to Mexico in the final (Photo: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Although still only 22, Neymar already has a wealth of experience at the top of the football world and has delighted fans with his trademark weaving dribbles in three legendary strips: Brazil, Barcelona and Santos. But he believes that representing your country at the Olympic Games is unlike any other experience.

“The Olympic Games are different, because they bring all sports together,” he said. “The whole world comes together to watch, uniting friends and family. When I was a child, I loved watching the Games on TV. I always imagined myself playing for Brazil and it’s an honour to have achieved this goal so early on in my career, and then gone on to play in the World Cup.”

Neymar intends to make the most of the special Olympic atmosphere and the chance to see top performers from other sports at their peak. “I really want to see Usain Bolt in action, I’m a big fan of his,” said the Brazilian. “And I also want to see Brazil compete in volleyball, basketball, swimming and judo. But what I’m most looking forward to is the feel of the Games at the Olympic Village. In London we didn’t stay with the other athletes and I think the atmosphere must be very different. I admire many Brazilian athletes and it will be marvellous to share this experience with them.”

Neymar’s style of play reflects his Brazilian heritage – always seeking to attack, take on opponents and, most of all, to entertain. He believes this national spirit will be a major characteristic of the Rio 2016 Games.  

“The big difference we have is the joy of the Brazilian people,” he said. “Brazilians really love sport and are very hospitable, which is a perfect combination for hosting the Olympic Games. And we will be doing all we can to electrify our fans in the stands.”