The French international has beaten Barcelona in the Champions League despite a midfield scandal he reports is better off without Neymar
Marquinhos has rubbed suggestions that Kylian Mbappe works better for Paris Saint-Germain when Neymar is present.
Neymar has not appeared for PSG since February 10 due to a leg injury, and Mbappe took a leading role in Brazil’s absence when he thrashed Barcelona in the Champions League six days later.
Mbappe made one of the achievements of his career so far in completing a hat-trick in the 4-1 win for PSG at Camp Nou, but Marquinhos feels the Frenchman is even better alongside Neymar .
What was said?
When asked by RTL if Mbappe is a better player without Neymar in the side, Marquinhos said: “No, we can’t go into those stories.
“I see people talking, but we have to stop with daisies like that.
“We always want to be our favorite players. If you ask Kylian, I think he would also prefer when Ney is by his side.
“Kylian was there and did the right thing [against Barcelona], but other players were important in this game as well.
“When the team is playing well, that’s when the people come out even bigger.
“It gave him (the performance against Barca) confidence. Scoring three goals at Camp Nou is something very important for him and us.
“Everyone has understood what his abilities are. We are here to help him as much as possible. He is a leader on the field with his personality and qualities. He had a great game. . “
Neymar returns
The Brazilian superstar was in a state of disrepair after injuring Caen in the Coupe de France, prompting Instagram to seek protection from opposing players.
He has been working hard on his spirits over the past month and PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday that there was a chance Neymar could be in the squad to face Barcelona on Wednesday.
Neymar is keen to go up against his former club, and a place on the bench could be the most likely option as long as the 29-year-old trains well over the next few days.