Amid all the speculation surrounding his future, Neymar was seen training as normal with the rest of his Barcelona teammates in New York on Thursday.

Ernesto Valverde's first game in charge of the Catalans is against Juventus on Saturday and Neymar is expected to feature, despite being linked with an incredible world record switch to Paris Saint-Germain.

It had been reported earlier in the week that Barca's Brazilian star might be tempted to leave the Camp Nou so he can move out of Lionel Messi's shadow.

After all, how is he supposed to become the best player in the world if he isn't even the best player at his club?

The 25-year-old has been touted as a potential Ballon d'Or winner of the future and although he has often thrived playing alongside Messi and Luis Suarez, there are some who think a fresh challenge might be just what he needs.

However, in an interview with Goal, Neymar has piled the praise onto his Argentine teammate - suggesting that their positive on-pitch relationship is as genuine as it appears.

The Brazilian explained exactly what separates Messi from everyone else and gave four simple reasons why he is the best in the world.

"He’s simply exceptional, quick, intelligent, a great finisher, can dribble like no other with speed or in short spaces. It’s just magical!" he told Goal.

"He’s also very generous, he doesn’t have that “wanting to be the best” aspect, that must-score attitude. He also presents you with opportunities to shine as well. Living with Messi has made me a better professional.

"To watch him training, on the dressing room, how serious he is facing every challenge helped me grow up. I’m lucky to have him as a friend, as an idol!"

That would appear to indicate Neymar is more than happy with the current arrangement at Barca.

While the big money move to PSG might look tempting on paper, losing the day-to-day influence of working alongside one of the best players to ever grace the game is quite a gamble.

Nevertheless, Barcelona need to find a way to keep Neymar happy if the natural heir to Messi's throne is to fully achieve his potential at the Camp Nou.