Neymar's "passions for other things" are what make the Brazilian different to Cristiano Ronaldo, according to Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus.
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Neymar & Ronaldo both playing in the Saudi Pro LeagueJesus compared Neymar to the Portuguese strikerSays Brazilian puts "other things" ahead of footballGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Both the superstars have shifted base to the Middle East after trophy-laden careers in Europe. However, the Neymar is currently sidelined due to an ACL injury and is set to miss the rest of the campaign. Ronaldo, meanwhile, is going strong with Al-Nassr having scored 20 goals in just 18 matches in the Pro League. Although his team are seven points behind Neymar's Al-Hilal in the title race, the Portuguese remains determined to reduce the deficit in the second phase of the competition by continuing his inspired form.
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Speaking to Jesus said: "Cristiano Ronaldo has more passion for football, and therefore, it is his priority. Neymar has passions for other things, that his private life can offer him, and he puts that ahead of football."
However, he also hailed Neymar as a "fabulous" player, adding: "But as a player he is fabulous and as a man, I spent a month and a half with him, and he positively surprised me in everything."
(C)Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Neymar had to undergo surgery to reconstruct his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus after he was stretchered off in first-half stoppage time during Brazil's 2-0 World Cup qualifier defeat against Uruguay. There is no definite timeline for his return but is expected to miss the Copa America with Brazil in the summer.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Ronaldo has returned to Riyadh after the winter break and is gearing up for three mid-season friendlies ahead of getting back to competitive action. After playing against Shanghai Shenhua and Zheijiang, Al-Nassr will lock horns against Lionel Messi's Inter Miami on February 1. Following the string of friendlies, Ronaldo & Co will face Neymar's Al-Hilal on February 8 in an away fixture in the Pro League.