Transfer: Why I left European football for Saudi Arabia – Neymar

Forum 8 months ago

Transfer: Why I left European football for Saudi Arabia – Neymar

Former Paris Saint-Germain star, Neymar has revealed why he left the club for Saudi Arabia.

The Brazilian said that rather than money, his move to the Middle East was motivated by his desire to ‘be a global player’.

The former Barcelona forward also cited his desire for ‘new challenges and opportunities in new places’ as another reason.

Neymar, 31, has joined Al Hilal, who signed him for £80 million.

Sky Sports reports that the Brazilian will be earning £129.4 million per year.

He signed a two-year deal with the Pro League side.

Neymar has been widely accused of leaving Europe because of the eye-watering cash he has been offered in Saudi.

But speaking to the press for the first time after he completed his move, Neymar said, “I have achieved a lot in Europe and enjoyed special times, but I have always wanted to be a global player and test myself with new challenges and opportunities in new places.

“I want to write new sporting history, and the Saudi Pro League has tremendous energy and quality players at the moment.”