Neymar did everything to force a move, says Barca prez
What's the story
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has stated that Brazilian superstar Neymar tried everything to force a move to the Spanish champions. The Paris Saint-Germain forward had his heart set on a return to Spain, but his club could "not meet" the French champions' demands. Neymar is yet to feature for PSG this season. Here are the details.
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Neymar did everything possible, says Bartomeu
"Neymar did everything possible because it was what he wanted," Bartomeu told Barca's in-house television channel. "I think now he has another strategy, another project and this season he will play for PSG."
Transfer
Neymar transfer saga ruled the summer transfer window
The saga involving Neymar has been a long one since the start of the summer transfer window. PSG were keen to let him go and didn't want to keep an unhappy player. Barca and Real Madrid were both interested in a move but nothing materialized. Reports had claimed that Neymar was also willing to take a pay cut. However, things weren't meant to be.
Bartomeu
Bartomeu quashes reports of offering players to PSG for Neymar
The Barca president also quashed reports of the club offering players as part of an exchange. There were rumors that stated players like Ivan Rakitic and Ousmane Dembele were options. "Barca never offered our players. It was PSG who asked for them in the negotiations. The deal didn't go through because the club could not meet PSG's demands."
Neymar PSG
Neymar has had a tough journey at PSG
Neymar has had a difficult journey at PSG. Injuries and suspensions have bothered him. The Brazilian has scored 51 goals in 58 appearances and won a host of trophies. However, he has a lot of work to do in terms of making a serious impact like that of Kylian Mbappe or Edinson Cavani. It remains to be seen how Neymar performs this season.
Our take
Neymar will hope to resurrect his PSG career
Neymar will hope to feature for PSG after the international break. He performed for Brazil and scored in the 2-2 draw against Colombia on Friday. This window will be crucial for him to gain some confidence. The idea will be to give his all for PSG this season and perform to his abilities. And then a possible return to Barca could gain shape.