The football world is in an uproar following the latest comments from Wayne Rooney, who shared his very personal opinion about Neymar, who was recently left out of the squad announced by Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming FIFA international window.

Despite a career packed with successes at Santos FC, FC Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, and being one of Brazil's greatest icons, the English former player stated that he has never considered him a "top, top" player.

Wayne Rooney's comments on Neymar

"I like Neymar but I've never seen him as a top, top player. Like, Messi, Ronaldo, that kind of category. He was good at Barcelona, but he was still overshadowed by Messi," the ex-English footballer said on The Overlap.

These remarks have sparked endless reactions on social media, including comparisons between the Brazilian and Rooney himself. While many fans acknowledge Rooney as one of the most lethal attackers in Premier League history, they argue he doesn't come close to "Ney"'s level.

Just recall his time at Barcelona, where he formed one of the most feared attacking trios in football history alongside Messi and Neymar. During that era, the Brazilian won the treble and established himself as one of the sport's biggest stars.

Rooney's comments come at a time of uncertainty for Neymar, who is unsure whether he'll play in what could be his final World Cup with Brazil. Carlo Ancelotti has decided not to call him up to the national team. The Italian coach hasn't included the Brazilian star throughout his tenure so far, raising the possibility of a FIFA World Cup 2026 without him.