Brazil's president praises Neymar for staying

Published Aug. 23, 2010 5:41 p.m. ET

foxsports

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is glad striker Neymar is staying in Brazil despite a huge offer from Chelsea.

Silva says it is ''extraordinary'' that Neymar decided to stay with Santos despite being the target of a ?35 million offer from Chelsea because it's ''important to have the great stars playing in Brazilian football.''

Silva also congratulated Santos directors for working hard to pay Neymar and other young players enough for them to want to stay.

The president, who met with Neymar and playmaker Paulo Henrique Ganso on Monday, says other teams should follow Santos' example.

Last week, the 18-year-old Neymar extended his contract with the Brazilian club until 2015.