Neymar ‘not in it for the money’ he says

AS Neymarentered the auditorium in Paris Saint-germain’s Parc de Princes stadium, the most expensive footballer in the world exuded purpose.

As he took his seat, sharply suited up, barbs and explanations came in equal measure.

As PSG unveiled their £198 million (R3.47bn) superstar, Neymar began by taking aim at those who had suggested he has been lured from Barcelona by Middle-eastern petro-dollars.

“Well what I can say to these people is that they don’t know anything about my personal life,’ he bristled. I was never motivated by money. What I think about is my happiness, together with my family, I want us to be happy.

“I must follow my heart. If I was following the money I would be somewhere else with different teams in different countries. I am really sad to think people think that way.”

After a turbulent week in which he had been accused of betraying Barca, here came a chance for Neymar to offer his own version of events.

After a private jet whisked him from Oporto, where he passed his medical, the Brazilian arrived in Paris yesterday morning. He was accompanied by an entourage of family and friends, who stood at the back of his press conference and applauded him into the room.

Neymar demonstrated some remorse towards his former club and also played down suggestions that this move will liberate him from a role in the shadows of Lionel Messi.

“It was one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made. I was at a great club at Barcelona, I loved Barcelona. I am looking for new challenges, trophies, and this is what PSG want.” – Daily Mail