Neymar Jr. is reportedly leaving Paris Saint-Germain and will continue his career in Saudi Arabia. Al-Hilal will be the next destination for the 31-year-old, but that wasn’t Plan A for the Brazilian.
If Neymar had to leave the French capital this summer, returning to Camp Nou was his desired goal. Transfer window specialist Fabrizio Romano reports that amidst speculation and anticipation, President Laporta had pursued the possibility of Neymar donning the Blaugrana jersey once more.
Laporta’s vision was backed by a collective yearning among the club’s members, players, and fans, who held fond memories of Neymar’s previous spell at the club.
🚨🇧🇷| All the people in Barça wanted Neymar, Laporta since day 1 wanted Neymar back. However, Neymar said during the talks that as long as Xavi is the coach, he is not going to return to Barça. This is why the story between Neymar to Barça was impossible. @FabrizioRomano pic.twitter.com/XLpZg6c8Xy
— PSG Report (@PSG_Report) August 14, 2023
Yet, despite the club’s and Laporta’s enthusiastic pursuit, the talks hit an unexpected roadblock. Neymar’s reported stance revealed a critical factor that stood in the way of the much-anticipated reunion.
The PSG star appeared to have expressed reservations about rejoining Barcelona as long as Xavi Hernández remained at the helm as manager. Still, the 2015 UEFA Champions League does have eyes for Barcelona in two seasons.
Neymar wants to return in 2025 once his lucrative two-year contract with Al-Hilal expires.
