Neymar Unveils Tensions: Claims Mbappe’s Jealousy of Messi and Explains His Departure from Barcelona

Neymar recently had a candid conversation with Brazilian football legend Romario. The chat delved into Neymar’s rollercoaster journey, including his struggles adjusting to life at Barcelona and the sensational move to Paris Saint-Germain—dubbed ‘the escape of the century.’ Neymar also touched on his relationships with football icons like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

Drama Unfolds: Mbappé’s Jealousy and Team Dynamics at PSG

After Messi arrived at PSG, he (Mbappé) was a little jealous. And then there were some fights, a change of behavior.

Neymar to Romario

Neymar opened up about the shifting dynamics at PSG after Messi’s arrival, stating, “Mbappé is not boring. I have my issues with him; we had a little fight, but he was crucial for us when he joined. I always called him ‘Golden Boy’ because I believed in his talent.”

Since setting foot in Paris from Monaco in 2017, Mbappé has faced intense competition and scrutiny, especially in light of Neymar’s blockbuster arrival the same year. Neymar reflected, “We had some great years together, but things changed when Messi came. There were some tensions and conflicts as egos clashed.”

Neymar: PSG’s Ego Problem and Champions League Frustrations

Discussing PSG’s repeated exits from the Champions League, Neymar didn’t pull any punches. “It’s great to have egos, but it’s essential to remember that you don’t play alone. Success requires teamwork,” he emphasized. “If no one runs and helps each other, it becomes impossible to win anything—a lesson we had to learn the hard way.”

Neymar’s Emotional Journey: From Tears to Triumph with Messi’s Support

Reflecting on his transition to Barcelona from 2013 to 2017, Neymar revealed how tough it was to adjust at first. “When I arrived, I felt immense pressure. It took me six months of struggle before I could perform like myself,” he admitted. The turning point came during a match break when Messi stepped in to lend a hand.

Messi told me that he was there to help me and that I should play the football that I played at Santos, without pressure.

Neymar to Romario

He recalled, “One day I was so overwhelmed that I broke down in tears. Messi knocked on my door and reassured me. He said I could count on him and encouraged me to play freely. Once I did, everything changed for the better.”

Neymar Opens Up About His Departure from Barcelona Despite Messi’s Promise

Explaining the motivations behind his move to PSG after four successful seasons at Barcelona, Neymar asserted, “Winning individual awards was not my goal. It was more about personal matters and the opportunity PSG offered, both economically and socially with my friends around.” He added that Messi tried to convince him to stay, promising, “I’ll help you become the best in the world,” but Neymar felt a different calling.

Neymar’s Drive for the Ballon d’Or: “It’s Not Everything”

While Neymar harbors ambitions of winning the coveted Ballon d’Or, he maintains perspective on its importance in his life. “My peak moment was at PSG, and had I avoided injuries, I might have had a shot at the award,” he acknowledged. “Every player aspires for excellence, but it’s not the be-all and end-all of my career.” At 32, Neymar remains focused on the future, hinting at the possibility of returning to Brazilian football when his contract with Al Hilal concludes.