Neymar’s £78 million arrival in Saudi Arabia has been labeled ‘disappointing’ by football fans, while others are backing the Brazilian for a hero’s welcome to the Middle East
Neymar’s £78 million transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal has sparked mixed reactions from football supporters.
The Brazilian will reap the riches in Saudi Arabia after agreeing a deal worth £260 million over two years after deciding to end his career in Europe by leaving Paris Saint-Germain.
He is the biggest name in football to move to the oil-rich country after Cristiano Ronaldo left England for dessert in December last year, although some fans are unimpressed by the announcement.
Neymar has been hailed as a ‘legend of the club’ by the reigning Ligue 1 champion, but early reactions point to annoyance at the departure of a top talent while he is still in the prime of his career.
The 31-year-old played for Barcelona before moving to France six years ago and is leaving Europe after winning the Champions League, LaLiga, Copa del Rey, Ligue 1 titles and other major honours.
Neymar (left) has completed his £78 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal
The Brazilian leaves France after six years with reigning Ligue 1 champions PSG
One comment hinted at whether Neymar would be criticized in the same way as Ronaldo after the Portuguese arrived in December to lead the Saudi football revolution.
They posted on Twitter: “So now that Neymar is in Saudi Arabia, does that mean he’s done too? Or that only applies to Ronaldo.’
Another pointed out how Neymar would be welcomed in Saudi Arabia, stating: ‘Neymar will be welcomed with open arms and appreciated by Al-Hilal fans. The biggest club in Asia. Something he didn’t get in Barcelona or Paris.’
The unveiling of Saudi Arabia’s superstars will cost millions as Al-Hilal spares no expense in welcoming Neymar to his new home.
Others poignantly said his departure means the once-legendary trio of Neymar, Ronaldo and Lionel Messi will have left European football.
Neymar (centre) leaves European after huge success at both Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain
The online post read: “With Neymar officially leaving for Saudi Arabia, all three players who defined this generation in some capacity are no longer playing European football.
Messi, Cristiano, Neymar. Like them, hate them, deny their greatness, this is still the end of an era. Does anyone feel old yet?’
Another labeled his arrival in the Middle East as ‘disappointing’, explaining: ‘Neymar moving to Saudi Arabia at the age of 31 is disappointing, but Kylian Mbappé still playing in Ligue 1 while over a turning 25 in a few months could be even more disappointing.”
A final emotional farewell to Neymar read: “I can’t believe Neymar is really gone man. Forever one of the best to play the game ever. I will miss him so much.’