Sport

“I Didn’t Leave Barcelona to Be the Best in the World at PSG” – Neymar Opens Up

Published

1 year ago

January 18, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Neymar Jr has finally opened up about his decision to leave Barcelona during the 2017/18 season.

In an interview with Brazilian football legend Romário, Neymar shared the personal motivations behind his departure.

Neymar joined Barcelona in the 2013/14 season from Santos FC in a high-profile $90 million transfer. Over four seasons, Neymar won numerous titles, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey.

However, fans were stunned when he announced his transfer to PSG in 2017. Rumors swirled that he left to step out of Messi’s shadow and cement himself as the world’s best player. Neymar has now clarified his reasons.

“I didn’t leave Barcelona to become the best player in the world at PSG,” Neymar told Romário. “When I told Messi I was leaving, he asked, ‘Why? Do you want to be the best player in the world? I can help you achieve that.’ But I told him no. It wasn’t about that—it was personal.”

Neymar admitted financial benefits played a role in his decision but emphasized that the opportunity to reunite with his Brazilian teammates was a big factor.

“At PSG, there were Brazilians I wanted to play with—Thiago Silva, Dani Alves, Marquinhos, Lucas Moura. They were all my friends, and I wanted to share the pitch with them.”

Sport

We Came for the Trophy’ — Ademola Lookman Reflects on AFCON Bronze

Published

2 hours ago

January 19, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Nigerian footballer, Ademola Lookman speaks on Nigeria’s Bronze from the Afcon game.

It can be recalled that the country won the medal after their victory against Egypt.

Lookman stated during an interview “Everyone wanted to win the gold medal. We came for the trophy, but it didn’t happen.”

“We leave the tournament with the bronze medal, and that is enough.”

Sport

‘I’m Fully Responsible’ — Brahim Díaz Speaks After Morocco’s AFCON Defeat

Published

2 hours ago

January 19, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Moroccan player Brahim Díaz speaks after his missed penalty that resulted in the country’s defeat to Senegal.

The player expressed how sad he was about the missed penalty and blames himself. “My soul hurts. I dreamed of this title because of all the love you guys have given me, every message and every act of support that made me feel like I wasn’t alone.”

“I gave my all, with my heart leading the way. I messed up yesterday, and I’m fully responsible for it. I’m really sorry for what happened.”

Sport

I Was a Bit Nervous’ — Referee Daniel Laryea Reflects on AFCON Semi-Final Experience

Published

1 day ago

January 18, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Ghanaian Referee, Daniel Laryea, who officiated the Nigeria vs Morocco game in AFCON gets interviews and shared his experience.

The referee reveals how it was his first time in a semi final and was kind of nervous. “I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final.”

“So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do. But of course, you feel a little nervous because of the level of the match.”