Former Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar Jr. recently opened up about his time at the French club, describing it as a pivotal chapter in his career.
His tenure at PSG, which spanned multiple years, was filled with unforgettable highs and challenging lows, shaping his legacy in European football.
A Memorable start and an unexpected farewell
Neymar recalled how his early years in Paris were marked by warmth and admiration from fans, making it a wonderful experience.
During his time with PSG, he lifted numerous trophies and delivered moments of brilliance on the pitch.
“My experience at PSG was both good and bad at the same time. Good, because in terms of football, I think I was at the peak of my career. And bad, because I was injured for a long time and often… I never played the whole season. So, there was sadness. I will never forget the very good moments I had here, especially the Champions League final. Those were truly incredible moments. We could have won, but a final is decided on details. Playing in Ligue 1 was really a good experience, and the fans were amazing with me. I wrote my story in Ligue 1, and it was good for my career. I’m proud and happy to have been part of it.”
Neymar Jr.
However, he acknowledged that his departure felt abrupt and bittersweet, leaving him and many fans longing for a more fitting farewell.
The Brazilian star’s move to Saudi Arabia brought an unexpected close to his time in Paris, but Neymar emphasized how much he grew as a player during his stint at PSG.
Comparing his evolution to his earlier days at Santos and FC Barcelona, Neymar highlighted the improvements he made in his game while playing in Paris.
The Champions League heartache
One of Neymar’s biggest regrets was falling short of bringing Champions League glory to PSG.
Reflecting on the 2020 final, he admitted that the loss still weighs heavily on him, as he believes he could have done more to achieve the club’s ultimate dream.
“We must not forget that we brought the club to its first Champions League final. Unfortunately, we didn’t win. But that’s part of football and sports in general. You can’t always win. PSG had the goal of reaching the final, and we achieved that. Moreover, the club still has this goal, and they are fully committed to this quest. It’s true that I’ve already won the UCL with FC Barcelona. When I look back, the victories with Barça remain incredible moments but I would have liked to win with PSG because winning the Champions League is like winning a World Cup with your country.”
Neymar Jr.
Despite this disappointment, he cherishes the journey and the bond he formed with the fans and his teammates during that time.
Comparing PSG and Barcelona
In his candid remarks, Neymar drew comparisons between his PSG and Barcelona experiences.
While both clubs played a significant role in his career, he expressed a deep appreciation for his time in Paris, calling it a unique and transformative chapter.
Neymar: “I respect PSG as a club and I will always support them to achieve the best results possible. I don’t have any resentment towards the club. I just have a little resentment towards people managing the club and some fans but that’s in the past now.”
“PSG is the club where… pic.twitter.com/Gc1Z9WLE6G
— PSG Report (@PSG_Report) December 15, 2024
Neymar’s heartfelt reflections are sure to resonate with PSG fans, many of whom continue to hold him in high regard as one of the greatest players to have graced the Parc des Princes.
Although his departure marked the end of an era, Neymar’s legacy remains intact, remembered by many as a player who brought unparalleled skill, passion, and unforgettable memories to PSG.
