Luis Suarez regrets Neymar's PSG move, believes Premier League would have made him Ballon d'Or winner

Luis Suarez has opened up about his long-time friend and former Barcelona teammate Neymar, revealing his surprise and disappointment over the Brazilian's decision to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017. According to Suarez, Neymar’s career could have taken a very different trajectory had he stayed in Spain or opted for a move to the English Premier League instead of Ligue 1.

Neymar’s historic transfer to PSG for €222 million (£188 million) was a groundbreaking moment in football. It sent shockwaves through the global market, with many seeing it as a symbol of state-backed financial power taking control of the sport.

The Brazilian superstar’s move was intended to elevate him to the level of football’s greatest, allowing him to step out from under the shadow of Lionel Messi at Barcelona. However, despite producing goals and assists at PSG, his tenure at the French club fell short of expectations, as he struggled with injuries and off-field controversies.

In an interview with Placar TV, Suarez shared his thoughts on Neymar's move, stating that both he and Messi tried to persuade Neymar to either stay at Barcelona or, if a change was necessary, head to the Premier League, specifically Manchester City.

“We said, ‘Ney, if you want to win everything, stay with us [at Barcelona],’” Suarez explained. He added, “We also said, ‘At least go to England, to Manchester City. Their football is better, but in France…’”

Why did Neymar struggle at PSG?

Suarez expressed his belief that if Neymar had stayed at Barcelona, he would have undoubtedly won the prestigious Ballon d'Or. “I think yes, if Neymar had stayed at Barcelona, he would have won the Ballon d'Or for sure,” Suarez added, making it clear that the Brazilian’s potential was sky-high, but his move to PSG stunted his chances of achieving the individual accolades many expected him to win.

Neymar’s time at PSG was marred by injuries, allowing him to play in only 55 per cent of the club’s matches during his six-year stint. Despite consistent performances when fit, his influence on the European stage diminished compared to his time at Barcelona. His off-field antics also drew negative attention, further overshadowing his career in France.

In 2023, Neymar made another surprising move by joining Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. Many saw this as the final nail in the coffin for his chances of ever winning the Ballon d'Or, an accolade that seemed inevitable during his prime years. Unfortunately, Neymar’s Saudi Arabian journey started poorly, with just five appearances before suffering a devastating ACL injury while on international duty for Brazil.