Neymar refuses €100 million from Real Madrid and chooses Barcelona for his dream of Messi

Neymar Júnior, aged 21, turned down a proposal of more than €100 million from Real Madrid in May 2013 and signed with Barcelona for €88 million. The decision, taken after months of negotiations with Santos, his training club, prioritized the Catalan sporting project and the dream of playing alongside Lionel Messi. The agreement marked the beginning of a successful trajectory in Europe, with the formation of the legendary trio MSN. The choice reflected the search for technical growth and adaptation to Barcelona’s style of play.

Santos faced pressure from both clubs, with Real Madrid offering salary bonuses and tax incentives. Neymar, however, opted for the Barcelona environment, known for its tiki-taka style. The decision was made after meetings with the Blaugrana board, who presented a detailed integration plan.

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• Real Madrid proposal: Above €100 million, with tax benefits.
• Contract with Barcelona: €88 million, with a focus on technical development.
• Duration of negotiations: About six months, between January and May 2013.

Reasons for choice

Neymar admired Messi since he was young and saw Barcelona as a chance to learn from the Argentine star. The Catalan playing style, based on ball possession, was ideal for his speed and dribbling characteristics.

The club offered support for the adaptation of a 21-year-old player, without excessive pressure. The decision also avoided a direct rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, then at Real Madrid.

Negotiations with Santos

Santos received simultaneous proposals from Real Madrid and Barcelona, which prolonged conversations for months. Real Madrid pressed with record values for the season.

Barcelona highlighted its sporting project, with specific training for Neymar. The Brazilian club retained part of the economic rights in the transfer.

The final decision came after the player’s visits to Madrid and Barcelona. The Catalan board detailed the striker’s role in the team.

Formation of the MSN trio

The arrival of Luis Suárez in 2014 formed the MSN trio, with Neymar and Messi. In the 2014-2015 season, they scored 122 goals, leading Barcelona to national and European titles.

The trio debuted in a classic against Real Madrid, with Neymar scoring the winning goal. The 2015 Champions League final, against Juventus, consolidated the group’s success.

Neymar contributed 39 goals, while Messi led the way with 58 and Suárez added 25. The combination of Argentine technique, Uruguayan instinct and Brazilian creativity transformed the Blaugrana attack.

MSN’s influence attracted fans in Latin America and inspired offensive tactics at other clubs.

Historical performance

Between 2014 and 2017, the MSN trio scored 364 goals in 450 games, averaging 0.81 goals per game. In the 2015-2016 season, they achieved 131 goals, winning more trophies.

Neymar stood out in decisive games, such as the comeback against PSG in the 2017 Champions League, scoring two crucial goals. The 4-0 victory against Real Madrid in 2015 reinforced the group’s superiority.

The trio surpassed historical records, such as that of Real Madrid in the 1950s. Their success redefined offensive football, forcing opposing defenses to adjust tactics.

Evolution at Barcelona

During 186 games for Barcelona, Neymar scored 105 goals and provided 76 assists. The partnership with Messi improved his finishing in reduced spaces.

Training with Suárez refined his offensive positioning, preparing him for greater challenges. The Catalan experience increased his value, culminating in a transfer to PSG for €222 million in 2017.

Football legacy

Neymar’s decision in 2013 shaped his career and influenced young talents. European clubs adopted formations with creative wingers, inspired by the success of MSN.