Crysencio Summerville waiting for Raphinha call as West Ham star dreams of Neymar showdown

West Ham United winger Crysencio Summerville has admitted he is still waiting to hear from former Leeds United teammate Raphinha after scoring at the World Cup, but the Dutch international has his sights set on an even bigger moment.

The 24-year-old has revealed that a potential meeting with Brazil and his childhood idol Neymar would represent one of the greatest moments of his career.

Having already made an impact for the Netherlands during the tournament, Summerville is dreaming of a knockout-stage collision that would bring both a reunion and a lifelong ambition.

Speaking to Voetbal International, as relayed by Voetbal Primeur, the West Ham attacker explained that he has been watching as much football as possible during the tournament.

Like many players, he has been studying different teams, styles and tactical approaches while preparing for his own matches.

One team attracting particular attention is Brazil.

A meeting with the South Americans would reunite Summerville with Raphinha, his former Leeds United teammate, but that is not the main attraction.

For the Dutch winger, the possibility of facing Neymar is what truly stands out.

Summerville revealed that his admiration for Neymar stretches back to childhood.

Growing up in Rotterdam, he regularly watched videos of the Brazilian superstar and attempted to learn from his style of play.

The influence clearly left a lasting impression.

“Playing against him would truly be a boyhood dream; he is my idol.”

For a player now competing on the biggest stage in world football, the prospect of sharing a pitch with Neymar would complete a journey that began on local pitches and playgrounds years ago.

Summerville also revealed that despite his impressive goal against Japan, he has not yet received a congratulatory message from Raphinha.

The pair developed a strong relationship during their time together at Leeds United, but the Brazilian has apparently remained silent so far.

Summerville joked about the situation while discussing a possible future reunion.

Whether the message eventually arrives may depend on how long both teams remain in the competition.

Beyond the personal stories, Summerville's focus remains firmly on helping the Netherlands progress.

His goal in the 2-2 draw against Japan further strengthened his standing within Ronald Koeman's squad and demonstrated the attacking threat he can provide.

Having followed his development from Leeds United to West Ham, confidence has always been a major factor in his performances. The World Cup stage appears to be bringing out the best in him.

Strong displays throughout the tournament could also have significant implications for his club future, with growing transfer speculation surrounding the winger after West Ham's relegation.

Before any reunion with Raphinha or encounter with Neymar can happen, both nations must successfully navigate the knockout rounds.

If they do, Summerville could find himself living out a childhood dream against one of the players who inspired him to pursue a career in football.

The Netherlands remain focused on progressing through the World Cup, with Summerville hoping to build on his strong start to the competition.

Should the tournament draw eventually produce a meeting with Brazil, the West Ham star would not only reunite with Raphinha but also achieve a long-held ambition of sharing the pitch with Neymar. For now, though, the winger's attention remains on helping his country advance to the latter stages.

Which would be the bigger moment for Summerville: facing Neymar at the World Cup or scoring the goal that takes the Netherlands into the final?