“Saudi Arabia at 31? A permanent stain on Neymar’s career” Brazilian journalist slams Neymar

Neymar (31, Al Hilal)’s move to Saudi Arabia has drawn criticism from his native Brazil.

Saudi club Al-Hilal officially announced the signing of Neymar on social media on Nov. 16 (KST). His contract runs until 2025 and the transfer fee is reportedly 90 million euros (about KRW 13.16 billion).

In the end, Neymar couldn’t resist the lure of Saudi oil money. Neymar will reportedly earn €300 million over two years. If he fulfills his add-on options, the maximum he could earn is a whopping €400 million ($583.8 billion).

Aside from the salary, Neymar had a number of other demands, all of which were reportedly met by Al Hilal, according to The Sun. “Neymar demanded eight supercars for his entourage,” The Sun reported. He wanted four Jaguars, a Benz van, a Bentley Continental, an Aston Martin, and a Lamborghini Huracan. The car lease alone cost £550,000 ($866.27 million).”

Neymar also demanded a private jet to fly back and forth between Saudi Arabia and Brazil, a mansion with more than 25 rooms, three saunas, and a 40-meter swimming pool. He also wanted his own chef and five housekeepers, and the fridge should always be stocked with his favorite drinks. 스포츠토토

[OSEN=Busan, Lee Seok-woo] On the 3rd, the third match of the ‘Coupang Play Series’ between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Jeonbuk Hyundai was held at the Busan Asiad Stadium.

Paris Saint-Germain FC’s Neymar shares his joy with Lee Kang-in after scoring the second goal in the second half. 2023.08.03 / foto0307@osen.co.kr

In Neymar’s native Brazil, critics have accused the player of selling his honor for money. The idea that he went to Saudi Arabia without winning the Champions League with PSG, one of the best teams in Asia, is problematic.

As Brazilian journalist Kaik Andrade wrote in his column after Neymar’s move, “The move to Al-Hilal will be a permanent stain on Neymar’s career. To leave Europe for Saudi Arabia at the age of 31 is to move even further away from the ideals he has achieved. A genius like Neymar should be playing in Europe’s top leagues, chasing trophies and awards. A move to Saudi Arabia is a huge minus for his career.”

In fact, Ronaldo, who left for Saudi Arabia last year, wanted to stay in Europe but was forced to make the move because no team was calling. Other players are also past their prime. Neymar is the first superstar to go to Saudi Arabia in his prime and for a huge amount of money.

“It would have been best for Neymar to go to another team in Europe or stay at PSG,” said Globo. Neymar’s salary at Al-Hilal is double that of PSG, which most people can’t even imagine,” criticizing Neymar for being sold for money.