Everton forward, Richarlison was named the Toffees’ Player of the Season for 2019-20, but the award was presented to him by his Brazilian team-mate and idol, Neymar.
Although the Brazilian was belatedly named the team’s player of the season, Neymar made a surprise appearance on Everton’s social media channels on Wednesday to present it to him.
The 23-year-old scored 15 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions for the Toffees last term. Being an admirer of Neymar, who he has played at the international level, and the Paris Saint-Germain superstar made a guest appearance to present Richarlison with the award.
“Hey Richarlison, I am so happy for you, congratulations on your season.
“Here it is, your Player of the Season award for Everton. Congratulations on this achievement, I know you’re the first Brazilian [to win this award],” Neymar said in a video published on Everton’s official Twitter feed.
Speakign further, Neymar stated that he is happy for his fellow Brazilian who joined the Toffees from Watford in 2018-19.
“I’m very happy for you. I hope you keep on scoring goals, helping your club, your team-mates and you know that I am always wishing you the best. All the best, congratulations, here’s your trophy. It’s a great pleasure for me to give it to you.”
🇧🇷 | After an assist from @neymarjr and @PSG_English, your 2019/20 Player of the Season @richarlison97 is excited about our future…#EFC 🔵 pic.twitter.com/RYgirqIFE8
— Everton (@Everton) September 23, 2020
It’s special receiving an award from my idol – Richarlison
In replying to the video via Twitter, Richarlison wrote: “Today is a very special day for me. Receiving the best player of the season award, playing by one of the most traditional clubs in Europe, and from the hands of a guy who is my childhood idol, but who also became a teammate and a friend that the football gave me is kinda surreal.
“Thanks, Everton! Thank you, fans! And thanks for the surprise and the message, Neymar. I haven’t words for thank you for all affection.”
Everton, after signing James Rodriguez, Allan, and Abdoulaye Doucoure, have made an impressive start to 2020-21.
Although Richarlison is yet to score, he provided two assists and has been directly involved in four goals in Everton’s 5-2 win over West Brom last time out.
It’s a contrasting situation for Neymar, having endured a tough start to the new season. His season was delayed after his appearance in the Champions League final for PSG against Bayern Munich.
He eventually made his first season appearance against Olympique Marseille but got sent off in the ill-tempered game in which he alleged he was the victim of racist abuse.
