The stats don't lie. Neymar's form has dipped alarmingly, particularly in front of goal, with the 23-year-old in the midst of a drought in La Liga stretching back to 15th February. This is far too long for a player of his talent.
The Brazilian flew out of the traps at the beginning of the campaign, forming a deadly partnership with Leo Messi on the pitch while Luis Suárez watched on and bearing little resemblance to the erratic performer of last season. He was a revelation, averaging a goal a game and putting together a six-match scoring streak at one point. This was a real shot in the arm and, truth be told, a pleasant surprise for Luis Enrique.
But now things have changed. The former Santos star looks a shadow of his former self and isn't contributing goals or assists. Suárez's scintillating performances have left Neymar in the shade and the no. 11 isn't being anywhere near as decisive as before. Barça are bearing the brunt of this decline.
However, Luis Enrique is putting his faith in the Brazil captain to start showing his true colours again, starting in Seville. The tactician feels that Neymar still has a key role to play as Barça look to capture silverware on several fronts over the next couple of months.
