Neymar, according to Luis Suarez, “had to remain by Lionel Messi’s side” to attain “the best” status; his departure from Barcelona was a “mistake.”
Through a record-breaking transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, the Brazil international forward decided to distance himself from Lionel Messi’s shadow at Camp Nou. In 2017, the Ligue 1 giants spent €222 million (£191m/$242m) on the South American, but in 2023, they allowed him to depart for Al-Hilal without securing the elusive Champions League title.

Neymar scored 118 goals in 173 appearances for PSG, accompanied by Messi for two seasons beginning in the summer of 2021. However, he was unable to challenge for the Ballon d’Or or reach the heights he had achieved as a member of the legendary ‘MSN’ attacking unit in Barcelona.

Suarez commented on Neymar’s departure from Barcelona for France to Clank! “We were extremely close friends, and we both understood that if we performed admirably on the field, we would contribute significantly to Barcelona.” In the event that one of us performed poorly, the other two would save the day. Their relationship was extraordinary. We advised him that his decision to attend PSG was erroneous. To achieve excellence, Ney was obligated to remain by Leo’s side. However, his choice was finalized, resulting in a void within the group.

Suarez is nearing a reunion with Lionel Messi at MLS club Inter Miami, while he considers a possible free agent move to the United States. Neymar, meanwhile, may be sidelined from Saudi Pro League action until 2024–25 due to knee ligament ligament damage.