France | Neymar
Neymar reveals the truth about his time at PSG
The Brazilian gave an exclusive interview to RMC Sport in which he confessed that he was not happy in Paris when he left a year ago.
In a candid interview on RMC Sport’s show hosted by Bartoli and Benoït Boutron this Sunday, Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. reflected on his seven-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain. Rarely giving interviews in France during his time there, Neymar revealed that his departure to Saudi Arabia in 2023 was driven by unhappiness and disappointing treatment from fans in his final seasons in the French capital.
“My experience at PSG was both good and bad,” Neymar admitted. “Good because, football-wise, I believe I was at the peak of my career. But bad because I was injured for long periods and often couldn’t finish a season. There was a sense of sadness. I’ll never forget the incredible moments here, especially the Champions League final. We could have won, but finals are decided by the smallest details… Playing in Ligue 1 was a great experience, and the fans treated me well. I wrote my story in Ligue 1, and it was beneficial for my career. I’m proud and happy to have been part of it. Now it’s over, and I need to focus on Saudi Arabia and my club, Al Hilal.”
Neymar, who formerly played for Barcelona among others, confessed that he wasn’t happy in Paris when he was transferred from PSG.
“I decided to leave PSG and an offer from Al Hilal came in… I received the offer right after leaving because I simply wasn’t happy at PSG. The club and the coach no longer valued me. They had already discussed it with me, so I had to make a decision. I liked Al Hilal’s offer. I got to know the club, the local culture, and the league. I was pleasantly surprised by the welcome here and the fans’ kindness. The league is developing, and so is our team. My family and I are confident we made the right choice.”
At 32, Neymar also evaluated his relationship with PSG fans.
“The first year was fantastic; the French and the fans welcomed me warmly. The last two or three years weren’t the same. The way they treated me wasn’t incredible, similar to what happened with Messi. For me, it was unfair because I always gave my all on the field. I hold no grudges, but I was saddened by how some fans treated me—coming to my home, trying to invade my space, insulting or threatening me. They crossed the line. Our relationship stopped being respectful, while I always respected them…
“It was a really complicated situation. In the end, I was saddened by how they treated me, but it’s behind me now. I respect PSG and will always support them to achieve the best results. I have no resentment towards the club, only towards some of its leaders and certain fans. But that’s in the past. This is the club where I spent the most time in my career, six years. I’ve lived great moments, but also some sad ones. My relationship with the fans is one of the sad parts, unfortunately. But sportingly, it was the best football I’ve played. So I’m happy and have peace of mind.”
Discussing his recovery from a severe knee ligament injury a year ago, Neymar emphasized the importance of mental attitude.
“I think it’s primarily a mental issue. An injury is always very tough for an athlete, especially one as serious as mine, and getting back to top level isn’t easy. It’s really about mindset, obviously with the support of those around you. It’s not easy, but the people around me—my family and friends—have given me a lot of support. It has even made me stronger to recover and progress mentally.”
Now a forward for Al Hilal, Neymar remains hopeful about showcasing his best self.
“Of course, I’m passionate about football. I agree that my time at PSG was probably the best for me. But it was very sad because I often had very serious injuries that could last three, four, to six months. It bothered me a lot, but football-wise and sportingly, it was the best Neymar I’ve had in my entire career. So I’m glad I could offer that to French football, but on the other hand, there’s also this feeling of sadness… Because I didn’t play a full season, only in 2020 when we reached the Champions League final. It was a really fantastic year when I think back. I’ll never forget those moments; they’re etched in my heart.”
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