Thiago Silva has revealed that Neymar Jr. Is one of the toughest players he has come up against as a defender.

At 39 years old, Thiago has clearly faced some of the most talented footballers in the world, including legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

However, when he was asked to name his toughest ever opponent, the Chelsea centre back also included his countryman, Neymar on the list.

“There were a few,” he told the Premier League’s official YouTube channel. “Cristiano, when he was at the top of his career. Messi and also Neymar when he was playing at Barcelona we used to face each other a lot. He is one of the toughest players I have faced.”

Thiago Silva and Neymar know each other well from the Brazil national team, having played together on numerous occasions. The South American duo also came up against each other when Neymar was at Barcelona, and Thiago represented Paris Saint-Germain, before they eventually became teammates at the French club.

Interestingly, Neymar and Thiago may actually have played together for Chelsea, but according to Fabrizio Romano, the Blues were unwilling to part with £77m when Paris Saint-Germain listed him for sale last summer, before he eventually ended up with Saudi Arabian club, Al-Hilal.

Unfortunately, injuries haven’t allowed the 32-year-old to flourish in the Saudi Pro League, as he’s been on and off the pitch for his new club since he joined them in the mega-money transfer.