I wanted Neymar at Real Madrid: Marcelo

Barcelona: Marcelo has expressed his disappointment at Real Madrid`s failure to tempt Neymar to Santiago Bernabeu.

The 21-year-old forward is set to be unveiled at Barcelona on Monday following a €28 million move from Santos, and while he is happy his compatriot has taken the next step in his career, Marcelo admits he would much rather play alongside Neymar than face him in La Liga. “Playing with Neymar is completely different to playing against him. I wanted him to join Real Madrid but I am happy for him, it’s a big step in his career," the 26-year-old told reporters at a press conference. The Brazilian insists there will be no rift between the two players on international duty as they prepare to lock horns in Spain next season, and says his Spanish team-mates at Madrid are relishing the prospect of taking on Brazil in the Confederations Cup. “It’s normal to have the odd conflict out on the pitch but once the final whistle goes, we’ll give each other a hug and forget all about it," Marcelo continued. “My Spanish team-mates at Madrid would love Spain to meet Brazil. They respect us a lot and the feeling is mutual. It’s difficult to gauge what might happen should we meet as we haven’t played each other for quite a long time but we have to remember that they are the reigning world champions.” Marcelo and Neymar are both part of the Brazil squad which is preparing to face England in a friendly on Sunday, after a court order suspending the game over safety concerns was overturned. Goal.com