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Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe were meant to rule the world with PSG, but off-field issues destroyed the trio
The departure of former Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar last summer marked the end of a tumultuous chapter for both the Brazilian and the French club. Neymar's six-year tenure at PSG was characterised by flashes of brilliance marred by persistent injuries, indifferent form in crucial matches, and a deteriorating attitude towards his teammates.
Neymar's Reaction to Kylian Mbappe's Emergence
A report by France Football sheds light on the deterioration of Neymar's relationship with Kylian Mbappe, PSG's rising star. As Mbappe ascended to become the face of the club, Neymar reportedly grew hostile towards him, leading to a breakdown in their relationship. An unnamed PSG staff member revealed insights into the situation, highlighting Neymar's apparent lack of respect towards Mbappe and Lionel Messi, who also joined PSG during Neymar's tenure.
"At the start, Mbappe liked him but lost respect for him having spent time alongside him on a daily basis. On the other side of things, Neymar and Lionel Messi were annoyed that Kylian had become the symbol of the club."
Conflict with Teammates
Neymar's decline in attitude extended beyond his relationship with Mbappe. Altercations with other PSG players, including youngster Ismael Gharbi and Portuguese midfielder Vitinha, further soured his reputation within the club. Reports of Neymar's aggressive behaviour towards Gharbi and Vitinha shed light on the toxic atmosphere surrounding the Brazilian's departure from PSG.
"With Gharbi, Neymar grabbed him and tried to kick him whilst he was on the ground. Everyone was shocked. At the end of his time at PSG, he really wasn’t very nice. He also bullied Vitinha, who denied it because he is a nice guy and didn’t want any problems, but he was insulted on several occasions."
Personal Struggles and Behavioral Issues
Amidst Neymar's tumultuous tenure at PSG, reports emerged of personal struggles and behavioural issues affecting his performance on and off the field. Neymar's disillusionment with football, coupled with late-night house parties, arriving drunk to training, and distractions such as gaming and poker, painted a picture of a player grappling with depression and disillusionment.
"After two or three good seasons, 'Ney' gave me the impression that he was completely fed up. Fed up with football, fed up with money.. He wasn’t hungry anymore. He still had motivation to play for the national team, but not to go and play in Brest."
Criticism and Controversy
Neymar's behaviour drew criticism from various quarters, including former teammates and pundits. Ex-midfielder Neto publicly criticized Neymar's conduct, expressing concerns about his impact on the Brazilian national team and his overall behaviour.
"He can’t be part of the Selecao, he’s like a rotten banana. If he continues, he’ll contaminate all the others!"
Neymar’s Legacy at PSG
Despite moments of brilliance, Neymar's time at PSG ended on a sour note. Hailed as the saviour upon his arrival, Neymar departed amidst controversy, leaving behind unfulfilled potential and a legacy tainted by behavioural issues and interpersonal conflicts.
The spectacular fallout involving Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe at PSG serves as a cautionary tale of talent overshadowed by personal struggles and conflicts. Neymar's departure from PSG symbolizes the untapped potential and unfulfilled promises that characterized his tenure in the French capital. As he embarks on a new chapter with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, Neymar's legacy at PSG serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by football's brightest stars both on and off the pitch.
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