Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu has confirmed that they will not allow Brazil captain Neymar to play in the Copa America.
Neymar has been uncertain over whether he would be able to play in both the Olympics and the Copa, but the Catalans have made the decision for him, stating that they could not release him twice.
"It will be impossible to convince us [to release the player twice]," Bartomeu said, according to UOL Esporte. "We are aware of the importance [of the Copa America], but our view is that players need to have some rest after two strong seasons.
"We see no problem in Neymar playing at the Olympics. The club would be enchanted, and I would take him if I were the Brazilian manager."
On the contract front, Barca have insisted that there is no pressure on Neymar to extend his deal quickly.
"Barca don't need to hurry. We won't put pressure on the player, and instead we will allow him to focus on the competitions," Bartomeu added.
"I know we won't have problems because the player himself has already said he wants to stay. Our plan is to have him here til the end of his career."
Do you think Barcelona are right not to release him for the Copa? Have your say in the comments section below.
