The story of Neymar Jr. will go down in history as one of the “what could have been” stories after the Brazilian failed to build on the success he enjoyed earlier in his career. His move to PSG set him back greatly.
Years of frustration at the Parc des Princes led to a switch to Saudi Arabia last month, joining an Al-Hilal side that wants to take over the Saudi Pro League. After recently leapfrogging Pele as Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer, the former PSG man has now paid tribute to another of his idol and compatriot.
Neymar shows gratitude to Kaka
Neymar Jr. may have had the worst years in his career at PSG, but the Brazilian always turned up for his country whenever needed. The former Barcelona man has been a pivotal member of the Brazilian national team since his debut in 2010 in a friendly game against the United States. 13 years later, Neymar has surpassed the legendary Pele as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals.
Players from the country, past and present, quickly took to social media to congratulate Neymar on his new milestone, and his idol Kaka was one of them. The former AC Milan man wrote on his Instagram, “Neymar, how good it is to see you break records and achieve your goals. Congratulations on reaching the historic mark of 78 goals and becoming the top scorer of our National Team. Thank you very much for the memory.”
Neymar quickly reposted Kaka’s message on his Instagram with the caption, “You were an inspiration to me, Idol,” accompanied by a love emoji.
Kaka, with a net worth of $90 million, had a similar career path as Neymar. After leaving his native Sao Paulo, Kaka signed for AC Milan, where he made a name for himself, even winning the Ballon d’Or in 2007. He left the Italian giants for Real Madrid in 2009, becoming one of the club’s most expensive summer signings alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. He failed to make an impact in Spain and returned to Milan before moving to the MLS to play for Orlando City.
Neymar Jr. reportedly beefing with Al-Hilal coach
Neymar moved to Saudi Arabia to restart his career after years of frustration at PSG. However, the Brazilian has endured a torrid start to his career in the Middle East, and reports now suggest that he may have fallen out with his coach Jorge Jesus. According to Inside Sport, Neymar Jr. has reportedly spoken with the board to look into the possibility of sacking the Portuguese coach after an altercation in the club’s 1-1 draw with Navbahor.
Jorge Jesus reportedly berated Neymar after a disappointing performance in the match and even criticized his poor attitude. The million dollar Brazilian ace, who intends to make are mark between others in the league did not take this lightly; another report claims they came close to a physical altercation. The coach now has a request to turn things around at the club or risk losing his job.
Can Neymar Jr. win the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal this season?
