Neymar has revealed that Lionel Messi’s arrival at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) sparked “jealousy” and “a shift in behaviour” from Kylian Mbappé, highlighting how “egos” within the squad hindered the team’s success.
The Brazilian superstar, now playing for Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, spoke candidly in an interview with Brazilian legend Romário about the impact Messi’s move to Paris had on the team dynamic. Messi joined PSG on a free transfer from Barcelona in August 2021, forming a star-studded attacking trio alongside Neymar and Mbappé. However, despite the fanfare, the partnership failed to deliver PSG’s elusive UEFA Champions League title.
When Romário asked if Mbappé could be “annoying,” Neymar responded:
“No, he’s not annoying. We had our differences, a little fight, but he was crucial for us when he first arrived. I used to call him the ‘golden boy.’ We played together, I always believed he’d become one of the best. I supported him, invited him to my house, and we shared dinners.
“But after Messi joined, Mbappé got a bit jealous. He didn’t want to share me with anyone. That’s when tensions started, and his behaviour changed.”
Neymar explained that while assembling one of the most talented attacking lines in football history brought excitement, internal conflicts stemming from personal egos prevented the team from achieving greatness.
“It’s good to have egos,” Neymar said, “but you must realize you don’t play alone. Success requires teamwork. When no one runs or helps each other, winning becomes impossible.”
PSG’s star-studded trio disbanded within two years. Mbappé left the club last summer for a highly anticipated move to Real Madrid, while Messi now plays in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami.
Neymar, 32, also reflected on his own career trajectory. He left PSG in 2023 to join Al Hilal but has struggled with injuries since. His season was cut short by an ACL injury in October 2023, and further setbacks have delayed his return to full fitness. Neymar has only appeared twice for Al Hilal during the 2024/25 season.
Looking ahead, Neymar has been linked with potential moves to MLS, with Chicago Fire rumored as a destination, or a return to Brazil. He did not rule out either option when asked.
During his six years at PSG, Neymar won five Ligue 1 titles, three Coupe de France trophies, and two Coupe de la Ligue titles. However, the closest he came to Champions League glory was a runners-up finish in the 2019/20 season. Despite his domestic successes, the lack of European triumph remains a significant blemish on his PSG legacy.
SOURCE: BBC
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