Brazilian striker Neymar has claimed that former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) teammate Kylian Mbappe became “jealous” of his relationship with Lionel Messi when the Argentine superstar joined the club in 2021.
Speaking on a podcast hosted by former Brazil striker Romario, Neymar attributed the clash of egos as the primary reason behind the inability of PSG’s star trio—himself, Messi, and Mbappe—to thrive together.
Neymar, who left PSG for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in 2023, recalled that his relationship with Mbappe started positively when the French forward joined PSG in 2017.
“I had my issues with him; we had a little fight,” Neymar admitted. “But at the beginning, he was fundamental. I always told him he was going to be one of the best. I helped him, talked to him, and we even had dinners together.”
However, Neymar said the dynamic shifted when Messi arrived from Barcelona. Neymar, who shared a successful stint with Messi at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017, suggested that Mbappe’s attitude changed as he grew envious of their camaraderie.
“When Messi arrived, I think [Mbappe] got a little jealous,” Neymar said. “He didn’t want to share me with anyone, and then the fights and behavioural changes began.”
The 32-year-old added that the trio’s lack of cohesion stemmed from an absence of teamwork and a clash of egos.
“You can’t play alone. Even if you’re the best, you need people around you to give you the ball,” Neymar said. “It was everyone’s ego… That’s why it didn’t work. If nobody runs or helps each other, it’s impossible to win.”
When asked about his future, Neymar was non-committal amid rumours linking him to a return to Brazil or a move to Major League Soccer. While acknowledging he is happy in Saudi Arabia, Neymar noted, “In six months, everything can change.”
The forward has struggled with injuries since joining Al-Hilal, managing only a handful of appearances in the past 16 months.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
