Why Neymar and Messi Fell Short of Major Success with PSG.

Neymar Jr.'s relationship with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) ended far from amicable. What began as a promising partnership eventually soured, leading the Brazilian star to leave for the Saudi Pro League. In an interview with RMC Sports, Neymar revealed that he chose to leave PSG because he "was no longer happy," and expressed his satisfaction with his new life at Al Hilal, praising the league’s growth and the warm welcome he has received.

“I simply wasn’t happy there anymore. The club and the coach didn’t want to use me. They told me as much, so I had to make a decision. And I liked Al Hilal’s proposal,” Neymar explained. He also reflected on his time in Paris, which saw both the peak of his footballing ability and some of the most challenging moments of his personal and professional life.

"My best football years were at PSG, but I also faced my toughest personal challenges"

The Brazilian forward stated that his time in Paris coincided with his peak performance, but he felt unappreciated despite his contributions. “My sporting years at PSG were undoubtedly my best. But it was very sad for me because I often had serious injuries, lasting three, four, or even six months. That bothered me a lot, but on the field, I believe PSG saw the best Neymar of my career,” he said.

Neymar also spoke about Lionel Messi, his former PSG teammate, revealing that both of them faced unfair treatment at the club. “The last two or three years were not the same as the first… the way I was treated, the same happened to Messi. I think it was unfair because I always gave everything on the pitch. I don’t hold grudges, but I was a little sad about how the fans treated me, especially when they came to my house, tried to invade it, insult me, or even harm me. That crossed a line for me.”

A Fresh Start at Al Hilal

After leaving PSG, Neymar found a more positive environment at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where he feels appreciated. “The welcome here has been incredible. I was surprised by the local culture and the kindness of the fans. The league is growing, and so is our team. I’m sure I made the right decision to come here,” he said.

Despite the difficulties he faced in Paris, Neymar emphasized that he harbors no ill feelings toward the club itself, although he did express frustration with the management and some fans. “I will always respect PSG and want the best for them. I don’t hold any grudges against the club, just some of the people who run it and certain fans. But that’s in the past now.”

• Neymar confirmed he left PSG because he "was no longer happy" and felt undervalued by the club and some fans.
• He considers his time at PSG to represent his peak footballing years, despite suffering several long-term injuries.
• He revealed that both he and Lionel Messi experienced unfair treatment at the club, which overshadowed their final years in Paris.
• Neymar praised his warm reception at Al Hilal and highlighted the rapid development of the Saudi Pro League, saying he is confident he made the right decision.
• While he respects PSG, Neymar admitted feeling resentment toward the club's management and a portion of the fanbase for their treatment of him.