Sport

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

Published

5 months 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

Victor Osimhen Opens Up on Hustling Days; Recalls Earning ₦80 Per Bucket to Help His Family

Published

11 hours ago

June 19, 2025

Ese Ohwofa

Popular Nigerian Footballer Victor Osimhen recalls his life journey and how he grew up in Lagos State, Nigeria.

During a recent interview with Daddy Freeze, the footballer reflected on his life, a young boy supporting his family.

The footballer recalled when he used to fetch water for the neighbors to make little money to support his family. He stated that he charged 80 naira per trip and he also washed the gutters, charging 30 naira.

Sport

Super Eagles Coach to Scout Talent at Federation Cup Final in Lagos

Published

12 hours ago

June 19, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, is expected to be at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Saturday, June 28, to watch the President Federation Cup final between Kwara United and Abakaliki FC.

The match presents a scouting opportunity for Chelle as he continues his search for fresh talent ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which is exclusive to players active in their home leagues.

Last month, the Malian coach included 10 home-based players in Nigeria’s squad for the Unity Cup in London, showing his growing interest in the local scene. Nigeria has been drawn into Group D alongside Congo, Sudan, and Equatorial Guinea for the upcoming CHAN, which will take place in August across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Sport

Mbappe Hospitalized due to Stomach Illness and Will Miss Club World Cup Game

Published

12 hours ago

June 19, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been hospitalized due to a severe bout of gastroenteritis. The club confirmed the news in a statement released on Thursday, noting that the French captain was taken in for medical tests after his condition worsened.

Because of this, Mbappe will be unavailable for Real Madrid’s upcoming FIFA Club World Cup clash against Pachuca on Sunday. He also missed their 1-1 draw with Al Hilal earlier in the week. At 26, the former PSG star will be aiming to bounce back quickly as he looks to return to action at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in the U.S.