“Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) ‘galactico’ (galactic – star-studded) era is coming to an end.”
That’s how the U.K.’s Guardian described French professional soccer forward Neymar’s (29) move to Saudi Arabia on Sept. 15. According to the Guardian, Neymar will wear the colors of Saudi “rich club” Al-Hilal. France’s L’Equipe reports that “Neymar has agreed a two-year contract with Al-Hilal. The deal is worth a total of 160 million euros ($233 million) over two years. Neymar’s transfer fee will be around 90 million euros ($131 million).” Neymar is the second superstar to leave PSG this summer. Last month, Lionel Messi, 36, left PSG for Inter Miami (USA).
Neymar, who joined PSG in 2017, scored 118 goals and 77 assists (173 games) in six seasons. He lifted the league title six times. However, he was recently parted ways with PSG when he announced his intention to return to his hometown club Barcelona (Spain). He also missed team training. He even missed the season opener on December 12. PSG has also labeled Neymar as a free agent. 메이저사이트
PSG newcomer Lee Kang-in, 22, had to let go of his best friend as soon as he arrived. Neymar treated Lee, who joined PSG on March 10, like a brother. They were often seen playing pranks on each other in training and sat next to each other on the bus. A preseason friendly between PSG and Jeonbuk Hyundai in Busan on March 3 marked the first and last time Lee and Neymar played together.
Neymar’s place is filled by returning ace Kylian Mbappe, 25. Mbappe, who scored eight goals at last year’s World Cup in Qatar to overtake Messi (seven) as the top scorer, is a star alongside Neymar and Messi. Mbappe, who has one year left on his PSG contract, rejoined PSG training on Nov. 13 after being at odds with the club over his refusal to renew his contract. The rift between Mbappe and the club was dramatically resolved when Mbappe agreed to a one-year contract extension on Dec. 12. As a result, Mbappe has been seen finishing passes from Lee Kang-in this season. PSG will host Toulouse on Tuesday in the second round of the 2023-24 Ligue 1 season.