Author: Soorya G
The transfer of Brazilian star Neymar Jr. to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal has sparked a great deal of discussion about the player’s decision to move to the Middle East and the footballing considerations that may have been taken into account when making the decision. Popular Brazilian sportscaster Benjamin Back also took a deep dive into the striker’s recent transfer and analyzed the veteran’s choice. Back was not happy that Neymar had become the latest player to join the Saudi Arabian Professional League and believes that the Champions League winner still has what it takes to succeed in Europe.
“I’m a fan of Neymar and I’d like to see him play in the Champions League, in the Premier League. But he chose money. I’m not here to judge anyone’s life project. As a Neymar fan and soccer lover, I’d like to see him play in England, in Spain. But that was his choice, now we just have to see what his day-to-day life will be like there“, said the presenter on air.
Back was of the opinion that Neymar’s decision was motivated solely by the financial allure of the Middle Eastern league, and that he could have opted to join a Premier League team or return to Barcelona. Neymar will earn an astronomical salary of around 320 million euros during his two-year contract with Al-Hilal, and there are reports about the kind of lifestyle the star will lead in Saudi Arabia.
The broadcaster is one of many voices who feel that Neymar has not lived up to the kind of talent he possesses. Although he’s had a stellar career, statistically he hasn’t had any major success since his peak, either with club or country, failing to win the Champions League after leaving Barcelona. Even with the national team, Neymar doesn’t have a major trophy. With this in mind, Back suggested that Neymar should have considered staying in Europe before moving to the Pro League at the end of his career.