Neymar: Why would I want to leave PSG?

Just months after failing to force a move away from Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar appears to have changed his tune on his future.

Published : Dec 17, 2019 12:41 IST

PSG forward Neymar is adamant he is not in the sport purely for personal accolades.
PSG forward Neymar is adamant he is not in the sport purely for personal accolades.
lightbox-info

PSG forward Neymar is adamant he is not in the sport purely for personal accolades.

Neymar appears to be happy to stay at Paris Saint-Germain, just months after attempting to force through a move away from the Ligue 1 champion.

The Brazil international had been linked with a return to Spain in the previous transfer window but a deal to go back to Barcelona or join Real Madrid failed to materialise.

Despite admitting he had wanted to leave and being jeered by PSG fans upon his return from injury against Strasbourg in September, Neymar has performed well for Thomas Tuchel's side in 2019-20, registering nine goals and five assists in 11 appearances in all competitions.

Read: Neuer and Muller confident of Champions League revenge against Chelsea

The 27-year-old has now suggested he has no reason to try to engineer an exit from Parc des Princes, where he moved for a world-record €222million fee two years ago.

"Why would I want to leave? I still have two years on my contract, the team continues to progress," he told France Football .

"We have to stay focused on this season to do things well and win as many trophies as possible.

"This season, the goal is the Champions League. And my priority is PSG, with maximum effort each week. The goal is always to win the next game."

While sometimes accused of selfishness on the pitch, Neymar insists few people truly know his personality and is adamant he is not in the sport purely for personal accolades.

"I never play to be the number one. I just play because I love football. I just feel happy when I play. And, every time I'm on the pitch, I give 100 per cent," he said.

"Do you think perfection exists? Only God is perfect. Everyone has their small faults. A leader is someone who must help the team to win, lead them to victory. They could be the captain, or the goalscorer. Everyone has their own way of being a leader, and possesses their own virtues.

"Few people really know the real Neymar. Just my parents and my friends. What people see is something completely different. And, in the end, they don't see much!

"The real Neymar is very calm, very happy. He is someone who enjoys staying with family and friends."

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment