Ney Villarreal: The Colombian Prodigy Inspired by Neymar

19/10/2025

By RSR Málaga – 19 October 2025

They call him “Ney”, a nickname born from admiration for Neymar Jr., but now the football world is learning his real name: Neisser Villarreal.

The 19-year-old from Tumaco, Colombia, is taking the U20 World Cup by storm. With five goals in the tournament — two against South Africa and a hat-trick against Spain Ney has become the tournament’s top scorer and a two-time Man of the Match.

His story is one of resilience and inspiration. Discovered and mentored by Radamel Falcao, Villarreal honed his technical precision and finishing mentality before earning his first call-up to the national team.

A physically dominant forward with explosive pace and lethal instincts, Ney plays with elegance and confidence a blend of power and flair that evokes his idol Neymar.

What makes his journey even more remarkable is his humility. He changed the name on his shirt to “Ney,” not for fame, but as a tribute.

Now, the tribute has become prophecy. The next great South American talent might just be wearing Colombia’s yellow. ???