The dynamics within Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) star-studded attack, featuring Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé, have been the subject of much speculation.
Neymar, in a recent interview with Brazilian soccer legend Romário, shed light on the relationships within the trio, revealing that Mbappé experienced feelings of jealousy towards the close bond between himself and Messi. Neymar’s comments offer a fascinating insight into the complexities of managing high-profile players and the dynamics within a team environment.
Neymar and Messi’s close friendship predates their time together at PSG. The pair previously played together at FC Barcelona between 2013 and 2017, forming a formidable attacking trio alongside Luis Suárez known as “MSN.”
This period witnessed unprecedented success, with the trio claiming every major trophy, including the Champions League. This pre-existing relationship laid the foundation for their close bond at PSG, but it’s also a factor in Mbappé’s reported feelings.
Despite the expectation of a harmonious attacking unit, Neymar revealed that Mbappé’s behavior shifted following Messi‘s arrival at PSG. Neymar, describing Mbappé initially as a “golden boy” whom he mentored, observed a change, suggesting that Mbappé felt some jealousy towards the close bond between Neymar and Messi. Neymar recounted that Mbappé’s unwillingness to share Neymar’s attention was a source of conflict within the team.
The on-field success and off-field tensions
Despite the reported off-field tensions, the attacking trio of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé enjoyed considerable success on the pitch during their two seasons together at PSG. They won two Ligue 1 titles, a Coupe de France, and a Trophee des Champions.
However, their Champions League campaign was less successful, reaching only the Round of 16 during Messi’s tenure. This suggests that, despite their collective success, internal dynamics within the squad played a role in their overall achievements.
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Following their time at PSG, all three players have embarked on new challenges. Mbappé joined Real Madrid, Messi signed with Inter Miami, and Neymar moved to Al-Hilal before returning to Santos.
Messi’s move to Inter Miami, where he currently plays as captain, signifies another stage in his distinguished career, following his World Cup victory in 2022. Neymar’s moves to Al-Hilal and Santos reflect his own unique career trajectory, while Mbappé’s time at Real Madrid continues to attract significant attention.
