Vinicius Junior rests in Rio de Janeiro with Neymar before starting the pre-season with Real Madrid.

Vinicius and Neymar are said to have spent some time together in Brazil before heading off to prepare for the club’s upcoming season. On Friday night, the Real Madrid winger, who grew up with his idol Neymar, expressed his gratitude in a social media post.

The caption reads: “When you become friends with your idol and he comes to spend the day with you. Never before has the phrase “never give up on your dreams” has so much meaning. Thank. I appreciate you and admire you.

Neymar has been linked with leaving PSG this summer, with Barcelona among potential suitors. He had ankle surgery in the spring but is tipped to be ready for the club’s two-week pre-season tour of Japan.

The pair will be away during the club season before being able to join Brazil’s duty during the September international break.