Luis Suarez, the former Barcelona star, has opened up about his conversation with Neymar regarding the Brazilian’s move to Paris Saint-Germain. In the summer of 2017, Neymar made headlines by transferring to PSG for a staggering €222 million, a record that still stands today.
Reflecting on that decision, Suarez shared that he advised Neymar to consider a move to the Premier League instead. “We told him, ‘Ney, if you want to win everything, stay with us at Barcelona,’” Suarez recalled during an interview with Placar TV. He added, “We suggested he at least consider England, perhaps Manchester City, where the football is more competitive. But France...”
Suarez expressed surprise at Neymar's choice to leave, especially given the success they enjoyed together at Barcelona, where they formed the formidable attacking trio known as MSN alongside Lionel Messi. Together, they terrorized defenses across Spain and Europe, winning a continental treble in their first season together (2014-15) and adding six more titles, including a La Liga trophy, before Neymar’s departure.
Suarez believes that if Neymar had stayed at Barcelona, he might have secured the Ballon d'Or. During his time at PSG, Neymar scored 118 goals and provided 77 assists in 173 appearances, but injuries marred his six seasons in the French league.