It has been reported that Manchester City turned down the chance to sign Neymar this summer, who now looks set to sign for Al-Hilal.
This comes from the Independent, as Fabrizio Romano claimed on Monday that the transfer is all but official.
However, it seems like Manchester City had the chance to sign Neymar from PSG, who Kayky was often likened to.
Manchester City rejected the chance to sign Neymar
Branded as ‘unbelievable’ by Phil Foden in an interview with Sky Sports Football, the Brazilian legend remains one of the best players in the world, despite being 31 years of age.
However, it seems like the Champions League winner, described as a ‘genius’ by Tite (via Fot Mob) is part of an exodus at PSG, which Lionel Messi having also left to join Inter Miami this summer.
Now, a revelation has emerged that Neymar was keen on staying in Europe, having tried to strike a deal with the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United and Bayern Munich this summer.
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However, no deal came to fruition due the ageing forward’s whopping transfer and salary package.
In addition, the aforementioned clubs view the PSG dribbler as a ‘self-indulgent player’ who is no longer a difference-maker at the elite European level.
Manchester City were one of those clubs that did not see the point in bringing in Neymar, who aspired to play in Europe as he aims to participate at the 2026 World Cup, with his intention being to be viewed as a massive sporting figure in the United States amongst other goals.
Manchester City made the right decision
Aside from the wages in question to sign Neymar, his constant injury woes would have also made it futile to sign Manchester City.
There is no questioning that he would have torn the Premier League to shreds and perhaps instantly have established himself as the league’s best player.
But City are known to be an extremely practical club and there is far too much risk associated with signing the former Barcelona poster-child, despite him still being an elite player.