Who is Nelson Semedo? Barcelona right-back who clashed with Neymar in Miami
Portuguese star signed from Benfica this summer for £26m
NELSON SEMEDO moved to Barcelona from Benfica this summer for £30million.
The right-back appears to have a had a bust-up early doors with team-mate Neymar however, during a training drill in Miami.
Who is Nelson Semedo and where does he come from?
AFTER starting his career in the Portuguese Third Division with Sintrense, Semedo got his big chance as an 18-year-old in January 2012, signing a five-year deal with Benfica.
A successful loan spell with second division side Faima in 2012/13 led to him becoming a regular feature for the Eagles’ B team, turning out 63 times for the Lisbon club’s second string before being promoted to the senior side.
A number of impressive displays in 2015/16 showed Semedo’s immense potential, with his swashbuckling runs along the right touchline catching the eye.
But a knee injury curtailed his progress and it wasn’t until the start of last season that he truly regained his form, confidence and undisputed starting berth in manager Rui Vitoria’s line-up.
The 23-year-old bounced back in 2016/17, making 31 Liga NOS appearances, scoring once and registering six assists.
With his skill, athleticism and dependable delivery from wide areas, Semedo became a vital part of Benfica’s attacking arsenal.
Furthermore, despite being right-footed, his ability to cut inside onto his left foot proved a valuable tool. Against Besiktas in a 3-3 Champions League group stage draw, the four-cap Portugal international wandered inside, breaking ahead of the ball.
When he received a pass from Eduardo Salvio he didn’t hesitate before turning onto his left foot and curling a delicious strike into the far corner.