Paris Saint-Germain has a long history of Brazilian players suiting up in their colors.
The relationship between the French capital and the South American country took off in the 1990s with the likes of Ricardo Gomes, Leonardo, and Raí.
Fast forward to 2020, and PSG’s lineup continues to be dominated by Brazilian players with Neymar Jr., Thiago Silva, and Marquinhos regularly starting for the club.
In a recent interview with France Football (via Culture PSG), Raí sat down to talk about PSG’s connection with Brazil, Neymar, and perhaps wanting a front office role with his former club.
One of the first questions thrown towards the PSG legend is the link between Brazil and the capital club.
Raí was a trailblazer for Brazilians making the trek across the Atlantic to the French capital. Along with Leonardo, both players were able to carve out legendary careers at the Parc des Princes.
“The link between my country and the club will always last. Look at the influence of Thiago Silva and Marquinhos on the pitch,” Raí said. “You can’t imagine a season at PSG without a Brazilian in an important role.”
The conversation then transitioned to the current superstar in Paris, Neymar. Raí believes that his compatriot is starting to build a legacy and that helping the Parisians advance over Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League is one of the beautiful chapters the 28-year-old is beginning to write.
Raí e Neymar Jr são os brasileiros com mais gols na história do PSG! ⚽ Obrigado, Raí!🙏
Raí and Neymar Jr are the Brazilians with the most goals in PSG!⚽ Thank you, Raí!🙏
📰 France Football#neymar #neymarjr #njr #raí #psg #paris pic.twitter.com/1pmTppIiDc
— Neymar Jr. Site (@NeymarJrSite) March 31, 2020
Finally, the French outlet asked Raí if he’d follow in the steps of his former teammate, Leonardo, and assume a role in management with the capital club.
Currently serving as the sporting director of São Paulo FC, Raí wants to see out his current project and gain more experience before one day heading to Europe, possibly with PSG.
“I learn a lot. One day I plan to have experience in Europe. My wife lived twelve years in London. It could be England, France, why not Paris? I have to mature my project.”
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