History of Neymar in Timeline
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, commonly known as Neymar Júnior, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal and the Brazil national team. Considered one of the greatest players ever, Neymar is celebrated for his flamboyant style, exceptional passing, and ambidexterity. He has achieved the rare feat of scoring over 100 goals for three different clubs and holds the record as the highest-scoring Brazilian player in Champions League history. Additionally, Neymar is the all-time top goalscorer for Brazil's National Football Team in official matches.
1978: Neymar's Transfer Evokes Rivellino's Legacy
Neymar's move to Al Hilal drew parallels to Brazilian legend Rivellino's transfer to the same club back in 1978.
February 1992: Birth of Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, widely known as Neymar or Neymar Júnior, was born in February 1992.
2003: Joining Santos' Youth Academy
Neymar's talent was recognized early on, leading to him joining the prestigious youth academy of Santos FC in 2003, a breeding ground for talented Brazilian footballers.
2003: Move to São Vicente and Joining Portuguesa Santista
In 2003, Neymar and his family relocated to São Vicente, where he started playing youth football for Portuguesa Santista, marking the beginning of his journey towards professional football.
2006: Historic Treble and Champions League Triumph for Neymar and Barcelona
In 2006, Neymar was part of the Barcelona team that made history by winning the treble for the second time, securing the La Liga title, Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League. He scored the third goal in the Champions League final against Juventus, making Barcelona the first club to achieve this feat twice. Notably, Neymar became the eighth player to win both the Copa Libertadores and the UEFA Champions League, a testament to his extraordinary talent and contribution to the team's success.
March 2009: Professional Debut for Santos
At the young age of 17, Neymar made his professional debut for Santos FC in March 2009, marking the beginning of his successful professional career.
2009: Professional Debut for Santos
At the age of 17, Neymar began his professional football career with Santos in 2009.
July 2010: Neymar Earns First Senior National Team Call-Up
In July 2010, Neymar's talent earned him recognition as new Brazil head coach Mano Menezes included him in the squad for a friendly against the United States.
August 2010: Neymar Debuts for Brazil, Scores First International Goal
At 18, Neymar made his highly anticipated debut for Brazil in August 2010, marking the occasion with a goal in a 2-0 victory over the United States.
September 2010: Controversy over Penalty Dispute
In September 2010, during a match with Atlético Goianiense, Neymar was involved in a dispute with his manager over a penalty kick, raising concerns about his attitude.
November 2010: Investment in Future Transfer Fees
In a strategic move anticipating a future transfer, Santos FC sold a 5% share of Neymar's future transfer fees to an investment group, highlighting his increasing market value and potential for a high-profile move.
December 2010: Third Place in South American Footballer of the Year
At the age of 18, Neymar earned third place in the 2010 South American Footballer of the Year award.
2010: Rising Stardom and Comparisons to Legends
By 2010, Neymar's performances were drawing significant attention and comparisons to Brazilian football legends like Robinho and Pelé, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential.
2010: Rejecting Offers from European Giants
Despite attracting interest and offers from top European clubs like West Ham United and Chelsea, Neymar, supported by his father, decided to continue his development at Santos, prioritizing his growth and development in a familiar environment.
2010: Neymar's Breakthrough Season and World Cup Omission
In 2010, despite a breakout season with Santos, Neymar faced disappointment as he was left out of Brazil's World Cup squad by coach Dunga, who deemed him untested at the international level.
2010: Dominating Performances and Campeonato Paulista Title
Neymar showcased his scoring prowess in 2010, including a remarkable five-goal haul in a single match. His contribution was crucial in Santos winning the Campeonato Paulista, and he was recognized as the tournament's best player.
March 2011: Neymar Expresses Pride in Representing Brazil
In March 2011, Neymar expressed his honor in being part of the Brazilian national team, acknowledging the talented players surrounding him.
March 2011: Neymar's Brace Against Scotland Overshadowed by Racism Controversy
March 2011 saw Neymar score twice against Scotland, but the game was marred by a racism incident. A banana thrown onto the pitch sparked accusations, highlighting the challenges faced by footballers in combating discrimination.
March 2011: Signing with Nike and Panasonic
Neymar signed an 11-year endorsement deal with Nike in March 2011, marking the start of his lucrative sponsorship career. That same month, he secured a two-year deal with Panasonic.
September 2011: Real Madrid's Pre-Contract Attempt
In September 2011, Santos president threatened to report Real Madrid to FIFA for allegedly attempting to sign Neymar to a pre-contract agreement.
2011: Copa Libertadores Victory with Santos
Neymar played a crucial role in leading Santos to victory in the Copa Libertadores in 2011, a significant achievement for the club after almost five decades.
2011: Neymar Shines in South American Youth Championship, Represents Brazil at Copa América
Neymar's prowess was on full display in 2011 as he spearheaded Brazil's victory in the South American Youth Championship with a tournament-leading nine goals. He continued his rise by representing Brazil in the Copa América, showcasing his growing importance to the national team.
2011: Copa Libertadores Victory
Neymar played a crucial role in Santos' 2011 Copa Libertadores victory, scoring six goals throughout the tournament, including the winning goal in the final match against Peñarol. This victory marked Santos' first Copa Libertadores title since 1963.
2011: FIFA Puskás Award
In 2011, Neymar won the FIFA Puskás Award for Goal of the Year for his performance against Flamengo, which he later recounted in the 2019 DAZN series.
2011: PSG's Last Loss to Marseille Before 2020
Before 2020, PSG had not lost to Marseille in Le Classique since 2011. The 2020 match, where PSG lost 1–0 and Neymar received a red card, ended this long-standing undefeated streak.
2011: FIFA Puskás Award Winner
Neymar's exceptional goal was recognized with the FIFA Puskás Award, celebrating the most beautiful goal scored that year.
February 2012: 100th Goal and Impressive Performances
In February 2012, Neymar reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th professional goal against Palmeiras. He continued to showcase his skills with noteworthy performances, including a two-goal, two-assist game in a 6-1 victory over Ponte Preta.
April 2012: Campeonato Paulista Success
Neymar's outstanding performances continued in the 2012 Campeonato Paulista, where he emerged as the top scorer with 20 goals and led Santos to the championship title.
May 2012: Neymar Selected for Brazil's Olympic Squad
In May 2012, Neymar's place as one of Brazil's brightest talents was confirmed when he was selected for the Olympic football team, aiming for gold at the London Games.
July 2012: Neymar Makes Olympic Debut, Shines in Group Stage
July 2012 marked Neymar's entrance onto the Olympic stage. He made an immediate impact, contributing assists and goals in Brazil's successful group stage campaign, raising expectations for a medal run.
August 2012: Neymar Leads Brazil to Olympic Final
August 2012 saw Neymar carry Brazil to the Olympic final, showcasing his leadership and scoring ability throughout the tournament.
September 2012: Neymar Nets First International Hat-Trick, Secures Victory Against Argentina
September 2012 was a memorable month for Neymar as he scored his first international hat-trick, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess on the world stage. He continued his impressive form by netting the winner against rivals Argentina.
November 2012: Personal Brand Logo
Loducca, an advertising agency, created a personal brand logo for Neymar in November 2012, incorporating his initials and jersey number.
2012: Pro Evolution Soccer Cover Athlete
Neymar's rising fame landed him on the cover of Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 and 2013 (North American version), sharing the spotlight with Cristiano Ronaldo.
2012: Olympic Silver Medal with Brazil
Neymar was part of the Brazilian team that secured the silver medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, marking his first Olympic medal.
2012: France Football's Richest Players List
In 2012, France Football ranked Neymar 13th on its list of the world's wealthiest footballers, highlighting his growing financial success.
2012: Cameo in Music Video
In 2012, Neymar made cameo appearances in the music video for the hit 'Eu Quero Tchu, Eu Quero Tcha' by João Lucas & Marcelo.
2012: Named World's Most Marketable Athlete
SportsPro recognized Neymar's global appeal and commercial value by naming him the world's most marketable athlete in 2012.
January 2013: Start of 2013 Campeonato Paulista and European Aspirations
Neymar commenced the 2013 Campeonato Paulista with a strong start, scoring twice in a 3-1 victory against São Bernardo. During this period, he also expressed his desire to play for a major European club like Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Chelsea in the future.
February 2013: Time Magazine Cover
In a historic moment for Brazilian athletes, Neymar was featured on the cover of Time magazine in February 2013. The accompanying article explored his potential as "The Next Pelé" and examined the connection between his career and Brazil's economy.
February 2013: "The Next Pelé"
In February 2013, Time magazine featured Neymar on its cover, dubbing him "The Next Pelé." The article drew comparisons between Neymar and the Brazilian legend, acknowledging their similar skills and origins in the Santos Youth Academy.
April 2013: Monica's Gang Comic Book Feature
Neymar's popularity extended to the realm of comics in April 2013 when Brazilian cartoonist Mauricio de Sousa created a Monica's Gang issue featuring a young Neymar as the central character.
May 2013: Most Marketable Athlete
SportsPro magazine named Neymar the world's most marketable athlete in May 2013, surpassing Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
May 2013: Signing with Barcelona
In May 2013, Santos confirmed receiving two offers for Neymar, and shortly after, Neymar announced his decision to join Barcelona. After successfully completing medical tests, he signed a five-year contract.
May 2013: Most Marketable Athlete
In May 2013, Neymar was named the most marketable athlete on the planet by SportsPro magazine for the second consecutive year. The list measures various factors including monetary value, age, and market potential.
July 2013: Unofficial Debut and First Goal for Barcelona
In July 2013, Neymar made his unofficial debut as a substitute for Barcelona in a friendly match against Lechia Gdańsk, which ended in a draw. Shortly after, he scored his first goal for the club during a friendly match against a Thailand XI, contributing to a 7-1 victory.
2013: Predicted as the Future Best Player
In 2013, Brazilian football legends Ronaldinho and Ronaldo predicted that Neymar would reach the pinnacle of football, with Ronaldinho stating that he would become the best player in the world within a few seasons and Ronaldo believing that Neymar had the potential to surpass Lionel Messi.
2013: Pro Evolution Soccer Cover Athlete (continued)
Neymar's rising fame landed him on the cover of Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 and 2013 (North American version), sharing the spotlight with Cristiano Ronaldo.
2013: Rap Music Video Appearance
In 2013, Neymar appeared in the rap music video 'País do Futebol' by MC Guimê, further cementing his influence in Brazilian pop culture.
2013: Maintaining the Top Spot in Marketability
Neymar retained his title as the world's most marketable athlete for the second consecutive year, according to SportsPro, solidifying his status as a global icon.
2013: Neymar's Lowest Scoring Season at PSG
Despite helping PSG win their 10th national championship, Neymar had his lowest scoring season since joining Europe in 2013, due to injuries.
2013: Neymar Receives Iconic Number 10 Shirt for Confederations Cup
In 2013, Neymar was handed the legendary number 10 shirt for the Confederations Cup, signifying his status as a key player for Brazil.
2013: Joining Barcelona and the Formation of MSN
In a major career move, Neymar joined Barcelona in 2013, forming a formidable attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, widely known as MSN.
2013: FIFA Confederations Cup Victory and Golden Ball Award
Neymar led Brazil to victory in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, earning the Golden Ball award for his outstanding performance in the tournament.
January 2014: Investigation into Transfer Fee
Barcelona's transfer deal for Neymar came under scrutiny in January 2014 when the prosecutor's office in Madrid launched an investigation into the details of the transfer fee, leading to the resignation of Barcelona's president, Sandro Rosell.
March 2014: Neymar's Hat-Trick and Heartwarming Gesture Captivate Fans
March 2014 saw Neymar score a hat-trick, but it was his off-field gesture that captured hearts. He intervened to ensure a young fan who ran onto the pitch had a memorable experience, sharing the celebration with his teammates.
June 2014: Vogue Cover with Gisele Bündchen
In June 2014, Neymar appeared on the front cover of Vogue Brazil alongside supermodel Gisele Bündchen, marking the start of the World Cup in Brazil.
September 2014: First Goals of the 2014-15 Season and a Hat-trick for Neymar
Neymar kicked off his scoring spree for the 2014-15 season by scoring his first two goals as a substitute in a match against Athletic Bilbao, leading Barcelona to a 2-0 win. Later that month, he achieved a hat-trick in a resounding 6-0 victory against Granada, continuing his scoring streak in the following La Liga matches.
October 2014: Neymar Named Permanent Captain, Achieves Scoring Milestone
Neymar's leadership qualities were recognized in October 2014 as he was appointed permanent captain of Brazil. He marked the occasion with a four-goal haul against Japan, further solidifying his status as a national icon.
November 2014: FIFA's 11 Against Ebola Campaign
In November 2014, Neymar participated in FIFA's '11 against Ebola' campaign, joining other top footballers to raise awareness about the disease.
2014: Beats Advertisement
Neymar appeared in a Beats advertisement alongside football stars like Thierry Henry and Luis Suárez, emphasizing the role of music in their pre-game routines.
2014: FIFA World Cup Dream Team Selection
Neymar's performance in the 2014 FIFA World Cup earned him a place in the tournament's Dream Team, recognizing him as one of the standout players.
2014: Decision to Move to Europe and Emotional Farewell
Ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Neymar, through his agent and father, announced his intention to move to Europe. In his final match for Santos, he was visibly emotional during the national anthem, marking the end of his time with the Brazilian club.
2014: Neymar Carries Weight of Expectations as Brazil Hosts World Cup
In 2014, Neymar carried the hopes of a nation as Brazil hosted the World Cup. The pressure was on for him to lead the team to victory, with expectations reaching fever pitch in the build-up to the tournament.
2014: Contract Extension with Santos
Neymar and Santos FC agreed to a contract extension that would keep him with the club until after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
January 2015: Impressive Performances and Goals in La Liga and Copa del Rey
In January 2015, Neymar's performance peaked as he scored two goals and provided two assists in a 6-0 La Liga win against Elche. He continued his scoring streak, reaching his 20th goal of the season in a Copa del Rey quarter-final victory over Atlético Madrid. Furthermore, he scored twice in the Copa del Rey semi-final, securing Barcelona's spot in their 37th Spanish Cup final.
March 2015: Fourth Highest Social Media Rank
In March 2015, Neymar ranked fourth in social media influence among sportspeople worldwide, boasting 52 million Facebook fans.
March 2015: Neymar Continues Scoring Form in Friendly Win
March 2015 saw Neymar maintain his scoring streak, finding the back of the net in a friendly victory against France, boosting confidence ahead of upcoming challenges.
June 2015: Neymar's Copa América Marred by Red Card and Suspension
June 2015 saw Neymar's Copa América campaign end in disappointment. A red card and subsequent suspension highlighted the pressures and intensity of tournament football, cutting short his involvement.
2015: Domestic Double and Controversy in Copa del Rey Final
In 2015, Neymar played a key role in Barcelona's domestic double, winning both La Liga and the Copa del Rey. He scored the second goal in the Copa del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao, but his showboating towards the end of the match drew criticism. While his manager defended his actions as cultural, Neymar's behavior sparked debate.
2015: Key Goals in Champions League and La Liga
In the final month of the season, Neymar proved instrumental in Barcelona's success. He scored the decisive goal against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final first leg and followed it up with a brace in the second leg, securing their spot in the final. In La Liga, his opening goal against Real Sociedad helped Barcelona maintain a four-point lead over Real Madrid.
2015: Third Place in FIFA Ballon d'Or Voting
Neymar finished third in the voting for the prestigious FIFA Ballon d'Or award, recognizing him as one of the top three players in the world that year.
2015: Neymar Leaves Europe Without Ballon d'Or or Champions League Success
Neymar's departure from Europe without winning the Ballon d'Or or additional Champions League titles after 2015 led some to view his European stint as unfulfilled.
2015: Four Goals in a Single Match and Ballon d'Or Nomination
Neymar's exceptional form continued as he scored an incredible four goals in a La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano in 2015. His consistent performance throughout the year earned him a nomination for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, alongside Messi and Ronaldo. Although he finished third, this nomination solidified his position as one of the best footballers in the world.
2015: Third Place in the Ballon d'Or
Neymar finished third in the 2015 Ballon d'Or voting, behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
May 2016: Copa del Rey Victory and Another Domestic Double
In May 2016, Neymar scored a crucial goal in extra time during the Copa del Rey final against Sevilla, leading Barcelona to a 2-0 victory and securing a second consecutive domestic double. This win solidified the attacking trio of Messi, Suarez, and Neymar as a formidable force in Spanish football history, as they broke their own record for most goals scored in a single season.
June 2016: Neymar Leads Brazil in Quest for Olympic Gold on Home Soil
In June 2016, Neymar was entrusted with the captain's armband for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. This marked his second attempt at Olympic glory, aiming to lead Brazil to a historic gold medal.
2016: Ranked Among World's Most Famous Athletes
ESPN ranked Neymar as the fourth-most-famous athlete globally, demonstrating his immense popularity and recognition beyond the world of football.
2016: Olympic Gold Medal with Brazil
Neymar captained Brazil to their first-ever Olympic gold medal in men's football at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, a historic moment for Brazilian football.
2016: Fourth Most Famous Athlete
ESPN ranked Neymar as the fourth most famous athlete in the world in 2016, highlighting his global prominence.
2016: Neymar's Contract Renewal with Barcelona
In 2016, Neymar signed a new contract with Barcelona, receiving a significant renewal bonus which later became a point of contention leading to a lawsuit in 2017.
February 2017: Historic Champions League Comeback against PSG
In February 2017, Neymar played a pivotal role in one of the most memorable Champions League comebacks ever. After a 4-0 defeat in the first leg against PSG, Barcelona faced an uphill battle. However, Neymar delivered an outstanding performance in the second leg, scoring two goals and providing an assist for the winning goal. This 6-1 victory marked the biggest comeback in Champions League history, showcasing Neymar's resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
April 2017: Time 100 Most Influential
In April 2017, Neymar was included in Time magazine's prestigious list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
June 2017: Desire to Leave Barcelona
During Messi's wedding in June 2017, Neymar reportedly expressed his desire to leave Barcelona to his teammates. This marked the beginning of speculation about his future at the club.
July 2017: Media Speculation and Barcelona's Stance
By July 2017, media reports intensified, suggesting Neymar's interest in joining PSG. While Barcelona acknowledged his importance to the team, they admitted their inability to prevent his departure if he was determined to leave.
August 2017: Barcelona Filed Lawsuit Against Neymar
On 27 August 2017, Barcelona filed a lawsuit against Neymar demanding he return the contract renewal bonus received in 2016, plus €8.5 million in damages and an additional 10% for arrears. The club also requested PSG to cover the fees if Neymar couldn't. Neymar's lawyers announced they would contest the case.
August 2017: Request to Leave and Negotiations
In August 2017, Neymar formally requested Barcelona to allow his transfer. The club's president acknowledged the situation, highlighting the player's right to decide his future.
August 2017: Record-Breaking Transfer to PSG
In August 2017, Barcelona announced Neymar's departure after his legal representatives paid the €222 million release clause, marking the most expensive transfer in football history. This move, fueled by PSG's financial backing and Neymar's ambition to step out of Messi's shadow, sent shockwaves through the footballing world.
August 2017: Neymar's Debut for PSG
On 13 August 2017, Neymar made his debut for PSG, scoring a goal and assisting another in a 3–0 away victory over Guingamp. The match was broadcast in 183 countries, highlighting the global excitement surrounding his arrival in Paris.
2017: Neymar's Move to PSG: A Missed Opportunity?
Some analysts believe that Neymar's decision to join PSG in 2017, while playing at a high level at Barcelona, may have cost him the chance to solidify his legacy alongside players like Pelé and Messi.
2017: Another Third Place Finish
Neymar again secured third place in the 2017 Ballon d'Or rankings, with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo maintaining their positions as the top two contenders.
2017: 100th Goal for Barcelona and Copa del Rey Triumph
Neymar achieved a personal milestone in 2017 by scoring his 100th goal for Barcelona during a 4-1 win against Granada. Later that year, he contributed to the team's Copa del Rey victory by scoring in the final against Alavés, marking his 105th goal for the club.
2017: Another Top-Three Finish in FIFA Ballon d'Or
For the second time in his career, Neymar secured a third-place finish in the FIFA Ballon d'Or voting, highlighting his consistent position among the world's best footballers.
2017: Neymar's Early Success at PSG
In 2017, Neymar formed a prolific attacking trio with Kylian Mbappé and Edinson Cavani at PSG. He scored in the opening games of the UEFA Champions League group stage. Neymar finished third in both the 2017 Ballon d'Or and The Guardian's ranking of the best footballers in the world.
2017: Record-Breaking Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain
Neymar's transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017 for €222 million set a new world record, marking him as the most expensive player in football history at the time.
February 2018: Neymar's Injury and Recovery
On 25 February 2018, Neymar fractured the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot during a match against Marseille. He had a successful operation in Belo Horizonte but did not return to play for PSG that season, ending with 28 goals in 30 matches. Despite his injury, Neymar was awarded the Ligue 1 Player of the Year.
May 2018: Named in Brazil's World Cup Squad
In May 2018, Neymar was selected for Brazil's 23-man squad for the World Cup in Russia.
June 2018: Unveiling at Barcelona
Neymar's transfer to Barcelona was finalized in June 2018 when he was officially presented to the public as a Barcelona player, with his contract set to run until this date.
June 2018: World Cup Return and Goalscoring Milestones
In June 2018, Neymar returned to international football after a three-month injury break. He scored in a friendly against Croatia and became Brazil's joint-third highest goalscorer during a friendly against Austria. In the World Cup, he scored against Costa Rica, becoming the third-highest scorer for Brazil.
August 2018: Neymar's Strong Start to the 2018–19 Season
On 12 August 2018, Neymar scored PSG's opening league goal of the 2018–19 season in a 3–0 win over Caen. He continued his strong performance, scoring and assisting in subsequent games, forming an effective attacking trio with Mbappé and Cavani.
2018: Pelé's Criticism
In 2018, Pelé publicly criticized Neymar's off-field antics, suggesting they detracted from his football career and the gift he'd been given.
2018: Third-Highest-Paid Footballer
Neymar's earnings reached €81.5 million in 2018, securing him the third spot on France Football's list of highest-paid footballers.
2018: Neymar at the 2018 World Cup
In 2018, Neymar was rushed back to play for Brazil at the World Cup in Russia following his February injury. However, his playing style seemed cautious, as he appeared to avoid physical contact, impacting his performance.
2018: Ranked Among World's Highest-Paid Footballers
France Football listed Neymar as the third-highest-paid footballer globally, highlighting his lucrative contracts and endorsement deals.
2018: Criticism and the Neymar Challenge
During the 2018 World Cup, Neymar's on-field theatrics and diving sparked criticism and inspired the viral "Neymar Challenge," where people would dramatically throw themselves to the ground. While acknowledged as a skilled player often targeted by opponents, his perceived exaggeration of fouls drew criticism from figures like Pelé and Eric Cantona.
January 2019: Neymar's Foot Injury and UEFA Ban
In late January 2019, Neymar suffered a foot injury that kept him out of PSG's Champions League tie against Manchester United. After PSG's elimination, Neymar insulted video review officials on Instagram and received a three-match ban from UEFA.
May 2019: Selected for Copa America, but Injury Strikes
In May 2019, Neymar was chosen to represent Brazil in the Copa America but, unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury in a friendly match against Qatar and was sidelined for the tournament.
July 2019: Rape Investigation Dropped
A rape investigation against Neymar was dropped in July 2019 due to a lack of sufficient evidence.
July 2019: Neymar's Absence from PSG Training
In July 2019, Neymar was absent from PSG training, leading to disciplinary action from the club. Neymar wanted to leave PSG due to feeling unprotected by referees, jealousy from teammates, lack of appreciation from fans, and negative media coverage.
August 2019: Transfer Negotiations Between Neymar and PSG
In August 2019, Neymar offered to pay €20m in installments to PSG to facilitate a move back to Barcelona. Despite negotiations between the clubs, PSG rejected Barcelona's offer and Neymar's proposal. Neymar ultimately agreed to stay at PSG after talks broke down.
October 2019: 100th Match for Brazil
Neymar achieved a significant milestone in October 2019 when he played his 100th match representing the Brazilian national team in a friendly draw against Senegal.
2019: Forbes' Highest-Paid Athlete Ranking
Neymar was ranked the third-highest-paid athlete globally by Forbes in 2019, earning $105 million, trailing only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
2019: Neymar's Performance in the 2019–20 Season
On 14 September 2019, Neymar made his first appearance for PSG in the 2019–20 season, scoring the winning goal with a bicycle kick in a 1–0 victory over Strasbourg. He continued his form by scoring another late winner against Lyon a week later. Neymar suffered a hamstring injury in October while on international duty and returned to action in a Champions League match against Real Madrid on 26 November, which ended in a 2–2 draw.
2019: Neymar's Incident at the 2019 Coupe de France Final
On 27 April 2019, Neymar scored in the Coupe de France Final against Rennes, but Rennes won on penalties. Post-match, Neymar was caught on video appearing to punch a spectator who was insulting PSG players. Neymar admitted his mistake, and PSG backed him. Coach Thomas Tuchel stressed the importance of showing respect even in defeat.
2019: Champions League Runners-Up with PSG
Neymar and PSG finished as runners-up in the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League, narrowly missing out on the title.
2019: Fourth Most Famous Athlete Again
In 2019, Neymar was again ranked by ESPN as the fourth most famous athlete globally, maintaining his high profile.
2019: The Making Of Series
In 2019, Neymar appeared in the DAZN series 'The Making Of', recounting his iconic performance for Santos against Flamengo in 2011.
2019: Ranked Third Among World's Highest-Paid Athletes
Forbes ranked Neymar as the world's third-highest-paid athlete, signifying his incredible earnings from both salary and endorsements.
July 2020: Neymar and PSG's Domestic Treble
In July 2020, PSG were awarded the Ligue 1 title as the season ended early due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Neymar scored in the Coupe de France Final, leading PSG to a 1–0 victory over Saint-Étienne on 24 July. On 31 July, PSG won the Coupe de la Ligue Final against Lyon, completing a domestic treble with Neymar scoring one of the penalties in the shoot-out.
August 2020: End of Nike Deal
Neymar's long-standing endorsement deal with Nike ended in August 2020 following a sexual assault allegation against him by a Nike employee. He subsequently signed with Puma.
September 2020: Positive COVID-19 Test
In September 2020, Neymar, along with PSG teammates Ángel Di María and Leandro Paredes, tested positive for COVID-19, reportedly after a vacation in Ibiza.
October 2020: Surpassing Ronaldo as Brazil's Second Highest Goalscorer
In October 2020, during a World Cup qualifying match, Neymar scored a hat-trick against Peru, securing Brazil's victory and surpassing Ronaldo to become the second-highest goalscorer for the nation.
2020: Neymar Tests Positive for COVID-19
In 2020, Neymar tested positive for COVID-19, causing him to miss PSG's first match of the 2020–21 season, which they lost 1–0 against Lens. He returned to training before the match against Marseille on 13 September, where PSG lost 1–0 in a heated game with 14 yellow cards and five red cards, including one for Neymar.
2020: Champions League Final Loss and Injury Struggles
In 2020, Neymar's PSG faced Bayern Munich in the Champions League final but unfortunately lost. During his time with PSG, Neymar battled frequent injuries, impacting his playing time and performance.
2020: Slight Drop in Forbes' Highest-Paid Athletes Ranking
Neymar's ranking on Forbes' list of the world's highest-paid athletes moved down slightly to fourth place, though still indicative of his substantial earnings.
2020: PSG's Champions League Journey
During the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League, PSG, with Neymar, reached the semi-finals but faced elimination by Manchester City.
January 2021: Neymar Returns From Injury
On January 13, 2021, Neymar returned to action for PSG after a month out due to an ankle injury. He scored the winning goal from a penalty in a 2-1 victory over rivals Marseille in the Trophée des Champions.
June 2021: Impressive Copa America Performances and Shared Top Player Award
Neymar delivered standout performances throughout the 2021 Copa America, contributing goals, assists, and impactful plays. Despite Brazil's loss to Argentina in the final, Neymar's exceptional contributions were recognized as he was named co-player of the tournament alongside Lionel Messi.
August 2021: Lionel Messi Joins PSG
On August 10, 2021, Lionel Messi, Neymar's former teammate from Barcelona, joined PSG, marking a significant moment in the club's history.
September 2021: Top Scorer in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Neymar's goal-scoring prowess continued in September 2021, as he became Brazil's all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup qualification matches, solidifying his place in the nation's football history.
2021: Copa América Runners-Up and Best Player Award
Neymar helped Brazil reach the final of the 2021 Copa América, where they finished as runners-up. His performance throughout the tournament earned him the title of Best Player, shared with Lionel Messi.
February 2022: Neymar Returns From Injury, Faces Fan Criticism
Neymar returned from an ankle injury in February 2022, but he and Messi faced booing from PSG fans in March following the team's elimination from the Champions League.
October 2022: Neymar's Resurgence and Ballon d'Or Consideration
By October 2022, Neymar was in exceptional form, being considered one of the best players in Europe. His performance led to discussions about him potentially winning the 2023 Ballon d'Or.
November 2022: World Cup Selection, Injury, and Record-Equaling Goal
In November 2022, Neymar was selected for the Brazil squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He played in the opening match against Serbia but missed the next two group games due to an ankle injury. Neymar returned for the knockout stage, scoring against South Korea and equalling Pele's record of scoring in three different World Cups. In the quarterfinal against Croatia, he scored his 77th international goal, equaling Pele's official goal tally for Brazil, but Brazil was eliminated after a penalty shootout.
2022: Political Support
Neymar publicly supported Jair Bolsonaro in the 2022 Brazilian presidential election.
2022: PSG's Squad Overhaul and Neymar's Future
At the end of the 2022-23 season, PSG decided to revamp their squad. Neymar, along with Verratti, was informed that they were not part of the club's plans moving forward.
2022: World Cup Qualification Journey
Neymar played a crucial role in Brazil's journey to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
2022: FIFA Video Game Appearances and Call of Duty
Neymar became a prominent figure in EA Sports' FIFA video game series, featuring in trailers and on special edition covers. He was also included as a playable character in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II.
2022: Neymar's Contract with PSG Until 2022
In 2022, Neymar's contract with PSG was set to run its course, having been offered the number 10 shirt by Javier Pastore as a "welcome gift". This move was believed to have been made to boost PSG's chances of winning the Champions League.
2022: Netflix Documentary Series
In 2022, Neymar was the subject of a Netflix documentary series titled 'Neymar: The Perfect Chaos', showcasing his life and career.
2022: Joining Elite Company in World Cup Scoring
Neymar became only the third Brazilian player, after Pelé and Ronaldo, to score in three different FIFA World Cup tournaments, cementing his legacy in Brazilian football.
February 2023: Criticism over Professional Discipline
Neymar faced criticism for his off-field behavior, particularly after PSG's loss to Bayern Munich in February 2023. Images of him at a fast-food restaurant late at night surfaced, drawing criticism about his commitment to his team.
March 2023: Neymar's Season-Ending Injury and Fan Protests
Neymar underwent season-ending surgery in March 2023. Following reports of Messi's potential departure from PSG, fans protested, with some targeting Neymar, demanding he leave the club.
August 2023: Neymar Transfers to Al Hilal
In August 2023, Neymar joined Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal on a two-year contract. The transfer fee was a record-breaking €90 million for the Saudi league.
September 2023: Becoming Brazil's All-Time Top Scorer
Neymar made history in September 2023 by scoring twice against Bolivia in a World Cup qualifying match, surpassing Pelé to become Brazil's all-time leading goal scorer with 79 goals. He celebrated his first goal by mimicking Pelé's iconic raised fist salute.
October 2023: Neymar Suffers ACL Injury
In a significant setback, Neymar suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in October 2023 while on international duty.
2023: Neymar's Potential for Ballon d'Or
Neymar's exceptional form in 2022 sparked conversations about him being a potential contender for the 2023 Ballon d'Or.
2023: Historic Transfer to Al Hilal
Neymar's move to Al Hilal in 2023 for €90 million made him the most expensive signing in the history of the Saudi Pro League.
2023: Move to Saudi Arabia and Legacy Debates
Neymar's 2023 transfer to a Saudi Arabian club at age 31 sparked debate about his legacy. Some argued it diminished his standing among the greats, while others, including Brazilian coach Fernando Diniz, still considered him one of the best.
2023: Media Commentary on Declining Performance
In 2023, Spanish publication Marca highlighted the decline in Neymar's performance, attributing it to persistent injuries that plagued his career.
2023: Environmental Violations Fine
In 2023, Neymar faced a hefty fine for alleged environmental violations during the construction of his mansion in Mangaratiba, Brazil. The violations included unauthorized water diversion and use of beach sand.
January 2024: Al Hilal Releases Neymar
Neymar was deregistered by Al Hilal in January 2024 to free up a roster spot for another foreign player due to Neymar's season-ending injury.
2026: Road to the 2026 World Cup
Neymar's goalscoring record is set to continue as Brazil progresses through the qualification rounds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.