Brazilian forward and one of the world's most skillful players, known for his dribbling, creativity, and flair on the pitch.
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior was born in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo in 1992 and became Brazil's record international goalscorer. He developed at Santos and captivated Brazil before Barcelona signed him for £49 million in 2013. Three seasons at the Nou Camp produced 105 goals in 186 appearances and the Champions League (2015) as part of the MSN trio with Messi and Suárez. Paris Saint-Germain paid a world record £198 million in August 2017 — a figure that made him by far the world's most expensive player — and he spent six seasons at the Parc des Princes, winning five Ligue 1 titles. Persistent ankle and hamstring injuries prevented him realising his full potential in Paris. He earned over 120 caps for Brazil, scored over 80 international goals — the national record — and played at three World Cups. His 2014 tournament ended with a fractured vertebra following a knee from Juan Zuniga. At Saudi club Al-Hilal, injuries limited him to one appearance in his first year. His skill — dribbling, finishing, free kicks — placed him in the conversation with Messi and Ronaldo, but questions about consistency, focus and injury vulnerability prevented him fulfilling his ultimate potential.
Most expensive football transfer in history (€222 million to PSG)
How They Played
Pacey, technical winger/forward with exceptional dribbling and flair
Lasting Impact
One of the most skillful and marketable players of his generation
Career Honours
- Champions League 2015 (Barcelona)
- La Liga 2015, 2016
- Copa del Rey 3x
- Ligue 1 5x (PSG)
- Copa América 2019 (Brazil – runner up)
- Confederations Cup 2013
- Olympic Gold 2016
- Champions League 2015
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santos | 2009–2013 | — | 230 | 68 | #11 |
| Barcelona | 2013–2017 | €57.1M | 162 | 42 | #11 |
| Paris Saint-Germain | 2017–2023 | €222M | 148 | 36 | #11 |
| Al Hilal | 2023–2024 | €90M | 7 | 1 | — |
| — | — | 128 | 79 | — |