Neymar Júnior, at 21 years old, rejected a proposal exceeding 100 million euros from Real Madrid in May 2013. The player signed with Barcelona for 88 million euros after negotiations with Santos. The choice prioritized the desire to play alongside Lionel Messi and the Catalan sports project.
The transfer took place amid intense talks between the European clubs and the Brazilian team. Barcelona emphasized the technical development of the forward. This decision started a phase of achievements in European football.
Real Madrid offered salary bonuses and tax benefits. However, Barcelona’s possession-based style prevailed.
- Real Madrid proposal: over 100 million euros.
- Amount paid by Barcelona: 88 million euros.
- Negotiation duration: from January to May 2013.
Negotiations between Santos and European giants
The discussions lasted nearly six months. Santos received simultaneous offers from both Spanish clubs.
Neymar’s representatives visited Madrid and Barcelona to evaluate the facilities. Barcelona presented a gradual integration plan with training in the first team.
Reasons for preferring the Catalan club
Neymar admired Messi since his teenage years. The tiki-taka style favored his dribbling and speed.
The Camp Nou environment allowed gradual adaptation. Johan Cruyff’s philosophy aligned with the Brazilian’s characteristics.
He avoided direct rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
Formation of the MSN trio with Suárez
Luis Suárez arrived in 2014 and completed the attack. The three debuted together in a classic against Real Madrid.
Neymar scored the winning goal in that match. The chemistry resulted in precise passes.
In the 2014-2015 season, they totaled 122 official goals.
Numbers of the trio’s performance
The MSN scored licke364 goals in 450 games from 2014 to 2017. The average reached 0.81 goals per match.
In 2015-2016, they recorded 131 goals. Neymar contributed with goals in comebacks, such as against PSG in 2017.
Messi led with 58 goals in the Champions League winning campaign.
Neymar’s evolution at Barcelona
The Brazilian played 186 games and scored 105 goals. He provided 76 assists in the period.
The partnership with Messi improved finishes in tight spaces. Training with Suárez enhanced positioning.
In 2017, he transferred to PSG for 222 million euros.
Legacy of the 2013 choice
The decision influenced tactics of other clubs. Formations with creative wingers gained adoption in Europe.
The trio raised global offensive standards. Young talents followed the model of prioritizing collective projects.
