Neymar: Football’s great entertainer needs a new crowd to entertain

Neymar’s time at PSG has turned ugly. Following a PSG loss to Lorient this week, questions have once again arisen regarding Neymar’s commitment to the club and as a result, irate PSG fans surrounded Neymar’s suburban Parisian mansion and demanded that he leaves the club.

Neymar is undoubtedly one of the most talented footballers of his generation. The Brazilian forward has consistently proven himself to be one of the game’s great entertainers, capable of dazzling opponents and fans alike with his breathtaking skill and lightning-fast pace. However, despite his undoubted abilities, Neymar’s time at Paris Saint-Germain has been slightly underwhelming, and he needs to move clubs this summer.

Since joining PSG in 2017 for a world-record fee of €222 million, Neymar has had a mixed time in the French capital. On the one hand, he has helped the club win three consecutive Ligue 1 titles and reach the final of the Champions League in 2020. On the other hand, his injury record has been a cause for concern, and he has failed to win the Ballon d’Or or lead PSG to European glory, which was the main reason why he joined the club in the first place.

Neymar’s statistics at PSG also do not paint the full picture of a player who should be considered one of the best in the world. In his six seasons at the club, he has scored 82 goals and provided 50 assists in 112 appearances. While these numbers are extremely impressive, it’s the lack of games which has been the problem.

Averaging under 50% of matches played, his frequent injuries have led some to question his commitment to the team. This has led to frustration among PSG fans, who have not seen their team achieve the kind of success they were expecting when Neymar was signed.

This summer, it is time for Neymar to move on. At 31 years old, Neymar is still exceptionally capable and there would be no shortage of potential suitors this summer. His wages could be a stumbling block, but his talent is undeniable. Here are some of Neymar’s potential next destinations:

Manchester United:

The Red Devils are in desperate need of new attacking blood. Marcus Rashford has carried the offensive burden for United this season and whilst his numbers are impressive, he can’t do it all alone. Anthony Martial is inconsistent on the pitch but consistently in the injury room, Antony has only shown flashes of his potential and Jadon Sancho is bright but often toothless in the final third.

Neymar would add a whole new dimension to United’s frontline. His flair, ruthlessness. and creativity would alleviate the pressure on Rashford. Some may question whether Neymar would be the right fit for United. He’s often injured, and United need a reliable goalscorer, someone more of the Harry Kane ilk rather than the Neymar one.

Chelsea:

After a torrid season, Chelsea are in need of a serious reshaping of their squad. Whilst outgoings should be their priority, Neymar would be a statement signing to demonstrate their ambition to bounce back after such a disappointing 2022/23 campaign. Todd Boehly has not been afraid to spend cash since taking over from Roman Abramovich and a move for Neymar may seem very appealing.

Barcelona:

Many say that Neymar played his best football at Barcelona. Signed as a teenager for Barca, Neymar enjoyed some very successful years at the Nou Camp and has constantly been linked with a move back since his arrival in Paris. Neymar has fuelled rumours that he will be returning by liking Instagram posts suggesting that he was happier there.

Barcelona has had a successful campaign, winning La Liga with an exceptional defensive record, but the one caveat to their season is their poor record in Europe. Next season Barcelona will want the Champions League trophy and Neymar could be the player to help them obtain it.

Real Madrid:

Now this would really be something. Luis Figo style. Just imagine how exciting it would be; Vinicius Jr on one wing, Neymar on the other. Karim Benzema through the middle. Real Madrid will want to reclaim their spot at the top of La Liga and Neymar would certainly help them in that regard.  

Whatever happens, it is going to be exciting to see where Neymar ends up this summer!

By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter