Neymar: 'Football without Messi isn't right'

Barcelona's Neymar and Messi react against Valencia at Camp Nou stadium, Barcelona, Spain, April 17, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

RIO DE JANEIRO -- Neymar has added his voice to a growing chorus calling for Lionel Messi to rethink his decision to quit the Argentina national team.

In an interview with Brazilian talkshow host Jo Soares, Neymar said he could not imagine international football without his Barcelona teammate.

"Football without Messi and Messi without football isn't right," the 24-year-old said. "Everybody who likes football wants to see the best players on the pitch."

Messi announced he would no longer play for Argentina after missing a penalty in the Copa America final shootout defeat by Chile in June.

Others to have publicly called for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner to rethink his decision include Argentina great Diego Maradona and Brazil legend Pele.