
The face of the 2014 World Cup? —
Brazil forward Neymar is tipped to be one of the stars of the 2014 World Cup. But the Brazilian international is not only concerned about events on the pitch...

Golden Boy —
Neymar is mobbed by members of the public in Rio's Maracana after his starring role -- voted best player in addition to being top goalscorer -- during Brazil's Confederations Cup triumph on home soil last year.

Protests —
But away from the action, hundreds of thousands took to the streets during last year's Confederations Cup to protest against the World Cup or in favour of more social spending.

Emulating Pele —
Neymar rose to prominence at Pele's former club Santos. In 2010, he led the club to their first Copa Libertadores title since Pele's days, with Neymar scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 aggregate win over Uruguay's Penarol in the final.

Past and Present —
World Cup winner Ronaldo, seen here playing for Corinthians against Neymar's Santos in 2009, is one of several individuals involved in the Barca star's business affairs.

Family Affair —
Neymar Senior, pictured on the left, represents his son, seen here alongside former Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as well as his onetime playing partner at Santos, Paulo Henrique Ganso.

'More than a Club' —
Neymar waves to the crowds after signing a five-deal with Barcelona, but the full nature of the transfer is now under investigation.

A bumpy start —
Barcelona have struggled during Neymar's first season at the club, having lost in the Spanish Copa del Rey final to Real Madrid and been knocked out of the Champions League, while a Spanish La Liga title looks unlikely.