Neymar’s move from Barcelona to PSG in 2017 was one of the most significant and controversial moments in football history.
The transfer, which involved a record-breaking release clause of 222 million euros, made Neymar the most expensive player in history at that time.
But was it worth it to leave?
- During his time at Barcelona, Neymar was a crucial part of one of the most feared formations in world football, the “MSN Trio,” alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez;
- Together, they won every possible title, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup;
- Neymar not only contributed with decisive goals and assists but also gained individual recognition, finishing third in the FIFA Ballon d’Or race in 2015.
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Rushed?
However, his decision to leave Barcelona was seen by many as premature and driven by financial and leadership motivations.
The move to PSG allowed Neymar to become the centerpiece of a new ambitious project, but it also distanced him from the constant high-level competition of La Liga and his partnership with Messi, one of the greatest football players in history.
After his departure, Neymar continued to succeed at PSG, winning domestic titles and being a key player in various European campaigns.
Chance to be the best in the world
Nevertheless, his pursuit of the Ballon d’Or and leading a team to UEFA Champions League glory have not yet materialized, leaving some to question whether it would have been better for his career to remain at Barcelona, where he had already established a solid base of achievements and recognition.
Between 2013 and 2017, Neymar played a total of 186 official games for Barcelona. The distribution of these matches was as follows:
- La Liga: 123 games
- Champions League: 40 games
- Copa del Rey: 20 games
- Spanish Super Cup: 2 games
- FIFA Club World Cup: 1 game
Neymar’s titles at Barcelona include:
- Champions League (2014/15)
- La Liga (2014/15 and 2015/16)
- Copa del Rey (2014/15, 2015/16, and 2016/17)
- FIFA Club World Cup (2015)
- Spanish Super Cup (2013)
Neymar is currently preparing for the next season
Injured since last October, Neymar continues to progress in his recovery to return to playing official matches for Al-Hilal.
In the 2023/24 season, he played only five matches, scoring one goal and providing two assists in Saudi Arabia.
Eager to regain his top form but with an uncertain future in the Middle East, Neymar has a contract with Al-Hilal until June 2025.
In the United States, the star is strengthening his physical condition
Focusing on the next season, Neymar is improving his physical condition to be 100% ready for Al-Hilal’s pre-season. In the United States, specifically in Las Vegas, the forward has posted some photos showing his activity in the gym.
Having not played an official game since last October, Neymar continues to advance in his recovery to return to the field as soon as possible.
