Pique Supports Two-Week Break

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique decided to give striker Neymar rest after his recent Olympic exertions. Neymar was the face of the Brazilian national team that was chasing Olympic gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics. This was the only medal missing from the Brazilian national team cabinet.

It was especially important given the recent poor performances by the national team at major tournaments like the World Cup and Copa America. Even though this was a tournament for the under 23 team, Neymar was picked as part of the three overage players. Barcelona went along with the wishes of the player so as to give him a great opportunity to win Olympic gold.