Neymar: Mbappé Was Jealous After Messi Joined PSG

Former PSG forward Neymar has revealed that Kylian Mbappé became “a little jealous” following Lionel Messi’s arrival at Paris Saint-Germain in August 2021.

Speaking on a podcast hosted by Brazilian football legend Romário, Neymar shared candid insights into his time at PSG, including the dynamics within the star-studded trio of himself, Mbappé, and Messi.

Neymar, who joined PSG in a record-breaking £222 million transfer in 2017, admitted to occasional tensions with Mbappé but described their relationship as generally positive.

“He’s not annoying,” Neymar said, responding to a question about the French forward. “We had a little fight, but he was fundamental for us when he arrived. I used to call him ‘golden boy.’ I always played with him, helped him, and even had him over for dinner.”

However, Neymar disclosed that Messi’s arrival in 2021 created some friction.

“After Messi came, [Mbappé] was a little jealous. He didn’t want to share me with anyone. And then there were some fights and a change in behavior,” Neymar stated.

Mbappé and Neymar both joined PSG in 2017, with the club aiming to secure its first UEFA Champions League title — a goal that remains unachieved. Neymar reflected on the challenges of managing egos within the team.

“It’s good to have egos, but you need to know you don’t play alone. There needs to be someone by your side. If nobody runs or helps, it’s impossible to win anything,” Neymar explained.

Neymar left PSG for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal in 2023, ending his PSG stint with 118 goals and 77 assists in 173 appearances. Mbappé, now at Real Madrid, also moved on after his tenure at the Parisian club.