Neymar Mbappe Messi Relationship at PSG, Neymar reflected on his early relationship with Kylian Mbappe, recalling how the French forward played a crucial role upon his arrival at PSG in 2017. Neymar described Mbappe as a “fundamental” player who shared a good relationship with him both on and off the pitch.
“I always told him he was going to be one of the best. I always helped him, talked to him, and supported him. He used to come to my house, and we went out to dinner together,” Neymar said.
This camaraderie, however, took a turn for the worse after Lionel Messi joined PSG in 2021. Neymar and Messi, who shared a strong bond from their time together at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017, appeared to trigger a sense of competition and jealousy in Mbappe.
Neymar Mbappe Messi Relationship at PSG, Lionel Messi’s Arrival at PSG: A Turning Point
When Lionel Messi arrived at PSG from Barcelona, his reunion with Neymar garnered global attention. Their chemistry was well-documented during their successful stint at Barcelona, where they won numerous titles, including the UEFA Champions League.
Neymar revealed that Messi’s arrival caused friction with Mbappe. “When Messi arrived, I think he [Mbappe] got a little jealous. He didn’t want to share me with anyone, and that’s when the fights began and his behavior changed,” Neymar disclosed.
The dynamic between the three superstars was expected to deliver dominance in Europe, but their collective egos and lack of teamwork hindered PSG’s progress.
Ego and Teamwork: The Key Issues
Neymar cited a lack of teamwork and an abundance of ego as the primary reasons why PSG’s star trio failed to realize their potential. Despite the individual brilliance of Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe, their collective effort was often overshadowed by personal ambitions.
“You have to realize that you don’t play alone,” Neymar said. “You might be the best, but you need others to pass you the ball and support you. If nobody runs or helps each other, it’s impossible to win.”
This acknowledgment highlights the importance of harmony and collaboration in team sports, even when multiple superstars are involved.
The PSG Trio’s On-Field Struggles
While Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe showcased moments of brilliance, their inability to function cohesively was evident during key matches. Despite dominating domestic competitions, PSG struggled in the UEFA Champions League, repeatedly falling short of expectations.
Key Factors Behind Their Struggles:
- Individualism: Each player thrived as the focal point in their respective teams before joining PSG, making it challenging to adjust to shared responsibilities.
- Lack of Defensive Work Rate: The trio’s reluctance to track back and support defensively put additional pressure on the rest of the team.
- Clash of Playing Styles: While Messi and Neymar relied on intricate passing and creativity, Mbappe’s strength lay in his pace and directness, leading to occasional disconnects in attacking moves.
Neymar’s Perspective on Leadership and Team Dynamics
Neymar’s comments underscore the role of leadership and mutual respect in achieving team success. He emphasized the importance of putting the team’s goals above individual accolades.
“It’s everyone’s ego that stopped it from working. In modern football, teamwork and discipline are critical. If nobody helps each other, you can’t win titles,” Neymar added.
These remarks also serve as a lesson for future teams attempting to assemble squads filled with high-profile players.
Mbappe’s Growth Amid Controversy
While Neymar and Messi have moved on to new clubs—Al-Hilal and Inter Miami, respectively—Kylian Mbappe remains PSG’s mainstay. Despite the controversies surrounding his relationships with teammates, Mbappe has matured into one of the best players in the world, leading both PSG and the French national team with distinction.
Mbappe’s performances suggest he has learned from past experiences, focusing on his responsibilities as PSG’s leader and talisman.
Neymar’s Future: What’s Next?
Now playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, Neymar has faced his share of challenges, including injuries that have limited his appearances. While he remains happy in Saudi Arabia, Neymar hinted at the possibility of a future move.
“In six months, everything can change,” Neymar said, leaving the door open for potential transfers to Brazil, Major League Soccer (MLS), or another European club.
Conclusion: Lessons from PSG’s Star Trio
Neymar’s revelations about his relationship with Mbappe and Messi offer valuable insights into the challenges of managing egos and fostering teamwork in star-studded squads. While PSG’s trio may not have achieved their full potential, their story serves as a reminder that harmony and collaboration are vital in football.
As Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe continue their respective journeys, their time at PSG will remain a fascinating chapter in football history—a testament to the complexities of blending individual brilliance into collective success.
👀 Neymar tells Romário: “Mbappé was not annoying! When Messi came, I think he became a little jealous…”.
“I had my things with him, we had a little fight. He was a boy that in the beginning was key, I used to call him ‘Golden Boy’, I was spoke to him, played around with him,… pic.twitter.com/sWpdU53omP
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 17, 2025
FAQs About Neymar, Mbappe, and Messi’s Relationship at PSG
1. What caused tension between Neymar Jr and Mbappe at PSG?
The arrival of Lionel Messi at PSG reportedly caused jealousy in Mbappe, who felt sidelined in Neymar’s close relationship with Messi.
2. Why did the Neymar-Messi-Mbappe trio fail at PSG?
A combination of egos, lack of defensive work rate, and a clash of playing styles contributed to their inability to achieve collective success.
3. Did Neymar Jr and Mbappe ever resolve their issues?
Neymar acknowledged having a “little fight” with Mbappe but maintained that they shared mutual respect and worked well together initially.
4. What did Neymar Jr say about teamwork at PSG?
Neymar emphasized that individual talent alone cannot win matches and stressed the importance of mutual support and collaboration on the field.
5. How did Lionel Messi’s arrival impact PSG’s dynamics?
Messi’s arrival reunited him with Neymar but created tension with Mbappe, who reportedly felt overshadowed by their bond.
6. Where is Neymar Jr playing now?
Neymar currently plays for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, having joined the club in 2023.
7. How has Mbappe grown as a leader at PSG?
Mbappe has embraced his role as PSG’s mainstay, delivering consistent performances and maturing as a player and leader.
8. What’s next for Neymar’s career?
Neymar hinted at the possibility of exploring new opportunities, potentially in Brazil, MLS, or Europe, in the near future.
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