When Neymar Jr. joined Paris Saint-Germain from Barcelona in 2017 for a world record fee of EUR 222 million, he was expected to spearhead the French club’s pursuit of the UEFA Champions League title. But, little has gone his way since then. Ahead of the 2022-23 season, Neymar looks to be on his way out, with PSG considering him surplus to requirements.
Neymar might have failed to live up to the expectations since his arrival at PSG but former Real Madrid defender Cicinho still rates him level with the GOATs Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi among the finest footballers in the world.
“Neymar is as good as Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, if not better,” Cicinho told Jovem Pan Esportes.
Since joining PSG in 2017, Neymar has gone on to make 144 appearances for the Ligue 1 side. In total, the Brazilian managed to score 100 goals for the club while also notching up 60 assists. Yet, his goals and assists haven’t been able to help PSG bag that elusive UEFA Champions League title for which he was bought.
Several reports in the European media suggest that he has been put up for sale by PSG in this summer transfer window. Though nothing concrete has emerged as far as Neymar’s transfer is considered, a few rumours linking him with a move to Premier League clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United have emerged.
As far as Messi and Ronaldo is concerned, the two have won a total of 12 Ballon d’Ors together. In comparison, the best Neymar has managed to get is a podium finish (in 2013 and 2017).
While Messi is presently Neymar’s teammate at PSG, Ronaldo is at Manchester United for his second stint. Unlike the Argentine, the Portuguese is reportedly looking to leave the English club this summer, hoping to continue his pursuit of bigger trophies and titles.
