THE TIME IS now for Neymar to make a decision over his future with Paris Saint-Germain, says former Barcelona defender Juliano Belletti.
The Brazilian, who has spent two seasons with the Ligue 1 outfit since his world-record transfer from the Blaugrana in 2017, has reportedly been made available for a move should the club receive a suitable offer.
Both former home Barca and key La Liga rivals Real Madrid have been linked with the forward, and Belletti, who played for the Catalan club between 2004 and 2007, has acknowledged that the Olympic gold medallist faces a major call over his next steps.
“A lot has been said about Neymar. I know hardly anything about this,” the 43-year-old stated.
For him, it is the moment to decide. He has to be very calm with his family to take the best decision.”
Upon his arrival at PSG, having claimed a Champions League title and two domestic crowns in Spain, Neymar was widely tipped to spearhead the French outfit’s challenge for European glory.
However, such success has failed to materialise, with consecutive round-of-16 knockouts in 2018 and 2019 against Madrid and Manchester United curtailing their hopes of continental success.
PSG’s inability to challenge for such silverware has contributed to a difficult mood at the club that has seen Neymar reportedly clash with team-mates, leading to speculation that he will depart this transfer window.
Speaking on whether he would prefer a return to Camp Nou for the Selecao star or for Barca to make a move for outgoing Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann, Belletti admitted that his fellow countryman was his personal pick.
“I am Brazilian and I have played during all my life with the best Brazilian players of my generation: Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, Rivaldo,” he added.
“So, imagine, I am more about these kind of things.”
A return to Catalonia could see Neymar link up with international compatriot Philippe Coutinho, who has struggled since making a big-money move from Liverpool, though Belletti believes his poor performances boil down to a lack of self-belief.
“When he gets more confidence, he will do much better,” he added.
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Wonder if he’s convinced the owners to write off this season. Just get back into Champions League and used the time to evaluate new signings. Squad needs a serious refresh particularly at left back.
It seems a strange move alright. Even if he concentrates on champions league. He still needs to have the quality to compete in Europe, and at the moment that defense won’t be good enough.
Klopp bought Van Dyke in January, and it changed their season.
@Thefallguy: I think if they have laporte back soon (I think he’s back in January) they could win the champions league. Between themselves and Liverpool for me. I think city should forget about the fa cup and league cup and only focus on the league and perhaps more importantly champ’s league.