Ligue 1

FC Barcelona: When did Neymar leave the club to join PSG?

One of the world's best, Neymar Jr has been a massive signing for PSG, who landed the Brazilian superstar at his prime from FC Barcelona. Here, we look back at the time when he made a switch from La Liga to Ligue 1.

Neymar in action with Barcelona. (Getty)
Neymar in action with Barcelona. (Getty)

When we talk about the biggesttransfer movesover the last few years, Neymar to PSGwill probably be the firstto come up to mind – or at least until Lionel Messi‘s switch to the French club is confirmed. The Brazilian was playing at his bestforBarcelona, but he decided to join the Ligue 1 giants.

His career has only gone upwards since then, despite he has yet to win the highly desired Champions League trophy with Paris Saint-Germain. Now, with his friend and former teammate Messi getting close, the Parisians might finally get their hands on the coveted continental prize.

2021/22 could be extremely special for Neymar and company, as PSG would have one of the best lineups in history after bringing in several big-name players this summer. While Leo seems to be on the verge of joining him, many fans may wonder: When did Neymar signfor PSG? Why did he leave Barcelona?Let’s break it down here.

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When did Neymarleave Barcelona?

Neymar in his presentation as a PSG player after joining from Barcelona. (Getty)

Neymar in his presentation as a PSG player after joining from Barcelona. (Getty)

Even though he belonged to one of the best offensive trios in history alongside Messi and Luis Suárez – the famous MSN – the Brazilian star apparently wanted to chase a new challenge where he would be the No. 1, unlike at Barca where Messi was the biggest star. Besides, he would be receiving an even more lucrative salary.

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Neymar left Barcelona in August2017, whenPSG acquiredhim for a record-breaking$244.20 millionfrom the Cules. Immediately, he became Paris Saint-Germain’s most important figure and was given the number 10 jersey.

His relationship with Messi, however, has always been great, and he was even linked with a return to Barca a few years later. Things have changed, though, and it is the Argentine legend who would switch teams to play with Neymar again.

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