Will Neymar Choose the MLS Over Brazil?
In a surprising revelation, Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil star Neymar expressed his desire to experience life in Major League Soccer (MLS) before retiring from his professional football career. While Neymar’s contract with Parc des Princes extends until 2025, he stated that he would prefer a move to the MLS instead of returning to Brazil.
The Rollercoaster Relationship with Paris Saint-Germain
Neymar’s journey with Paris Saint-Germain has been filled with both ups and downs, but currently, his bond with the club appears stronger than ever. Since joining in 2017, Neymar has become an integral part of the team and has left a significant impact. However, the Brazilian superstar now has his sights set on a potential adventure across the Atlantic.
Neymar’s MLS Aspirations
During an episode of the Fenomenos podcast, Neymar candidly shared his thoughts on his future plans, stating, “I don’t know if I’ll play in Brazil again; I have some doubts about that.” He then expressed his fascination with playing in the United States, citing his desire to spend at least one season there. In a lighthearted remark, he jokingly mentioned the shorter seasons in the MLS as a reason for considering the move, quipping, “I’d get three months of vacation!”
The Unique Journey of a Record-Breaking Player
As the most expensive player in the history of football, Neymar’s transfer from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain made headlines worldwide. In 2017, PSG activated his jaw-dropping release clause of $250 million to secure his services. In addition to the immense transfer fee, Neymar commands a staggering salary of $40 million per season.
Neymar playfully engages in banter about retiring at the age of 32, but emphasizes that it is merely a joke. He admits uncertainty about when he will hang up his boots, but plans to continue playing as long as his mental and physical well-being allows. Commenting on his future, Neymar emphasizes the importance of his mental health, acknowledging that it takes precedence over other factors.
Staying Put at Paris Saint-Germain
Despite numerous speculations linking Neymar with a return to La Liga and specifically to Barcelona, recent developments suggest that the Brazilian forward is likely to remain with Paris Saint-Germain until the end of his current contract. Earlier, odds favored a reunion between Neymar and Barcelona, along with possible moves to Real Madrid and Manchester City. However, the landscape has dramatically shifted, and Neymar’s commitment to PSG appears steadfast.
A Joint Path with Leo Messi in the MLS?
Interestingly, Neymar’s close friend and football icon Leo Messi is also rumored to be eyeing the MLS. Messi is expected to join a North-American club, potentially David Beckham’s Inter Miami, in 2023, following his stint with PSG. If Neymar were to follow suit and fulfill his dream of joining the MLS, the possibility of the two superstars gracing the same league becomes more intriguing.
Conclusion
Neymar’s revelation about wanting to experience the MLS before retiring from professional football has captured the attention of fans and experts alike. While his current contract keeps him at Paris Saint-Germain until 2025, the allure of a new adventure across the Atlantic has ignited his imagination. Will Neymar eventually don an MLS jersey? Only time will tell.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which club holds Neymar’s current contract?
Neymar is currently under contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) until 2025.
2. How much did Neymar’s transfer to PSG cost?
Paris Saint-Germain activated Neymar’s release clause worth an astonishing $250 million, making him the most expensive player in football history.
3. What salary does Neymar earn?
Neymar earns an impressive $40 million per season from his salary at Paris Saint-Germain.
4. What are Neymar’s thoughts on retirement?
Neymar often jokes about retiring at the age of 32, but clarifies that it is a lighthearted remark. The exact timing of his retirement remains uncertain.
5. Is there a chance that Neymar and Messi will play together in the MLS?
While it is purely speculative at this point, the possibility of Neymar and Lionel Messi gracing the same league, such as the MLS, adds excitement to discussions about their respective futures.
