Neymar

Neymar was born in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, to Neymar Santos Sr. and Nadine da Silva and had a Christian upbringing.{{cite web|title=neymarjr|url=http://instagram.com/p/jgf7PgxtpQ/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728215425/http://instagram.com/p/jgf7PgxtpQ/|archive-date=28 July 2014}}{{cite web|title=neymarjr|url=http://instagram.com/p/jPcOdKRttJ/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728201305/http://instagram.com/p/jPcOdKRttJ/|archive-date=28 July 2014}} He inherited his name from his father, who is a former footballer and became his son's advisor as Neymar's talents began to grow.{{cite news | url = http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/soccer-prodigy-neymar-is-at-home-in-brazil-20120710-21t7j.html | title = Soccer prodigy Neymar is at home in Brazil | work = The Age | access-date = 10 July 2012 | location = Melbourne | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131109123657/http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/soccer-prodigy-neymar-is-at-home-in-brazil-20120710-21t7j.html | archive-date = 9 November 2013}} Neymar comments on his father's role: "My father has been by my side since I was little. He takes care of things, my finances and my family."{{cite news |date=1 March 2012 |title=Work and play – Brazil's samba star Neymar has it all |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2012/03/01/sport/football/football-neymar-santos-brazil/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409170138/http://edition.cnn.com/2012/03/01/sport/football/football-neymar-santos-brazil/index.html |archive-date=9 April 2012 |publisher=CNN}} Growing up, Neymar combined his love of futsal with street football.{{cite web | url = http://backpagefootball.com/transfers/neymar-da-silva-santos-junior-the-world%E2%80%99s-hottest-property-2/ | title = Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior – The World's Hottest Property? | work = Back Page Football | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111117105022/http://backpagefootball.com/transfers/neymar-da-silva-santos-junior-the-world%E2%80%99s-hottest-property-2/ | archive-date = 17 November 2011}} Neymar said that futsal had a massive influence on him growing up, helping him develop his technique, speed of thought and ability to perform moves in tight spaces.{{Cite web|date=12 May 2020|title=Top 10 Pros Playing Today Who Started Off with Street Football and Futsal|url=https://urbanpitch.com/top-10-pros-playing-today-started-off-street-football/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813055959/https://urbanpitch.com/top-10-pros-playing-today-started-off-street-football/|archive-date=13 August 2020|access-date=15 January 2021 |website=FutsalFeed}} He was inspired by Ronaldinho, Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, and Wayne Rooney.{{cite web |date=18 January 2018 |title=Ronaldinho: The artist that inspired Messi and Neymar |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/barcelona/2018/01/18/5a60a261ca4741ae388b458c.html}}[http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/7585054/neymar-cools-messi-comparisons "Neymar cools Messi comparison"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210202838/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/7585054/neymar-cools-messi-comparisons|date=10 December 2013}}. Sky Sports. Retrieved 9 May 2014

In 2003, Neymar moved with his family to São Vicente, where he began playing for youth side Portuguesa Santista.{{cite news| url=http://m.globoesporte.globo.com/sp/santos-e-regiao/noticia/2012/11/atuacao-brilhante-pelo-sub-12-da-briosa-quase-fez-neymar-ir-para-rival.html| title=Performance by the under-12 Briosa almost did Neymar hit with São Paulo| date=7 January 2013| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928144251/http://m.globoesporte.globo.com/sp/santos-e-regiao/noticia/2012/11/atuacao-brilhante-pelo-sub-12-da-briosa-quase-fez-neymar-ir-para-rival.html| archive-date=28 September 2013}} Then, later in 2003, they moved to Santos, where Neymar joined Santos.{{cite news| url=http://soccertalk.us/soccer-news/the-trajectory-of-a-soccer-star-neymar/| title=The Trajectory of a Soccer Star – Neymar| date=7 January 2013| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613084109/http://soccertalk.us/soccer-news/the-trajectory-of-a-soccer-star-neymar| archive-date=13 June 2013| access-date=7 January 2013}} With the success of his youth career and added income, the family bought their first property, a house next to Vila Belmiro, Santos' home stadium. Their quality of family life improved, as at age 15, Neymar was earning 10,000 reais per month and at 16, 125,000 reais per month. At 17, he signed his first full professional contract, was upgraded to the Santos first team, and began signing his first sponsorship deals.{{cite news |url=http://mercafoot.com/page/neymar-el-barcelona-piensa-en-su-fichaje-pero-podria-ser-sin-pep-guardiola-en-el-banquillo.html |title=Neymar: without Pep Guardiola on the Barce bench |work=Merca Foot |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html |archive-date=11 June 2015 }}

Neymar began playing football at an early age and he was soon spotted by Santos who offered him a contract in 2003; where he was inducted into their youth academy, which has, in the past, produced Brazilian internationals like Coutinho, Clodoaldo, Diego, Elano and Alex. He also joined the likes of Pepe, Pelé and Robinho in starting out his career at the club, nicknamed Peixe.{{cite web|url=http://www.santosfc.com.br/futebol/elenco/jogador.asp?i=2|title=Atacantes – Neymar|publisher=Santos Futebol Clube|language=pt|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121204183020/http://www.santosfc.com.br/futebol/elenco/jogador.asp?i=2|archive-date=4 December 2012}} While in the youth academy, Neymar met Paulo Henrique Ganso, becoming good friends in the process. Aged 14, Neymar travelled to Spain for try outs with the Real Madrid youth team. He did not stay in Madrid, however, as his father decided at the time that he preferred the young prodigy to keep growing up while playing at Santos.[https://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/10/sports/soccer/neymar-soccer-prodigy-is-at-home-in-brazil.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 "Soccer Prodigy, at Home in Brazil"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805062720/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/10/sports/soccer/neymar-soccer-prodigy-is-at-home-in-brazil.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 |date=5 August 2017 }}. The New York Times. Retrieved 22 May 2014Neymar Sr.'s own words explaining the decision, as translated in the referred source: "We're from a humble family, and in a humble family there is always the question of cultural values," he said. "We thought he had to grow up in Brazil. That was the first serious choice we had to make."

Neymar made his professional debut on 7 March 2009, despite being only 17 years old. He was brought on for the last thirty minutes, in a 2–1 win against Oeste. The following week he scored his first goal for Santos against Mogi Mirim. One month later, on 11 April, Neymar scored the decisive goal in a 2–1 win against Palmeiras in the 2009 Campeonato Paulista semi-final first leg.{{cite web|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/estaduais/2009/interna/0,,OI3697654-EI12403,00-Neymar+da+vantagem+ao+Santos+no+duelo+com+Palmeiras.html|title=Neymar dá vantagem ao Santos no duelo com Palmeiras|date=11 April 2009|publisher=Terra|language=pt|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331074815/http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/estaduais/2009/interna/0%2C%2COI3697654-EI12403%2C00-Neymar%20da%20vantagem%20ao%20Santos%20no%20duelo%20com%20Palmeiras.html|archive-date=31 March 2012}} In the final, however, Santos suffered a 4–2 aggregate defeat to Corinthians.{{cite web|url=http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/estaduais/2009/interna/0,,OI3741998-EI12403,00-Invicto+Corinthians+segura+Santos+e+e+campeao+paulista.html|title=Invicto, Corinthians segura Santos e é campeão paulista|date=3 May 2009|publisher=Terra|language=pt|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008005558/http://esportes.terra.com.br/futebol/estaduais/2009/interna/0%2C%2COI3741998-EI12403%2C00-Invicto%20Corinthians%20segura%20Santos%20e%20e%20campeao%20paulista.html|archive-date=8 October 2012}} In his first season, Neymar racked up 14 goals in 48 games.

{{Quote box|width=26%|align=right|quote="The 18-year-old is a magnificent prospect. He is sleek and skilful, able to beat the defender on either side, capable of combining well, and full of tricks he can put to productive use in and around the penalty area."|source=—South American football journalist Tim Vickery on Neymar in 2010.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/legacy/timvickery/2010/08/neymar_hailed_for_premier_leag.html "Neymar hailed for Premier League snub"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html |date=11 June 2015 }}. BBC Sport. Retrieved 14 January 2015}}

He continued his rapid development in 2010, and, on 15 April, he scored five goals for Santos in an 8–1 rout of Guarani in the qualifying stages of the Brazilian Cup.{{cite web |url=http://www.wsn.com/2010/04/15/football/match-summaries/brazil/brazilian-cup/santos-sp_vs_guarani-sp/|title=Santos SP vs Guarani SP|date=15 April 2010|publisher=wsn.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612042830/http://www.wsn.com/2010/04/15/football/match-summaries/brazil/brazilian-cup/santos-sp_vs_guarani-sp/|archive-date=12 June 2010}} Following the 2010 Campeonato Paulista in which Neymar scored 14 goals in 19 games, including two in the second leg of the finals against Santo André, the club were crowned champions.{{cite web |url=http://pitacodogringo.wordpress.com/2010/05/03/santos-take-the-paulista-%E2%80%93-but-only-just|title=Santos take the Paulista – but only just.|date=3 May 2010|publisher=Pitaco do Gringo|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110103014240/http://pitacodogringo.wordpress.com/2010/05/03/santos-take-the-paulista-%E2%80%93-but-only-just/|archive-date=3 January 2011}} Neymar was subsequently given the award for the best player in the competition,{{cite web|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/Campeonato_Paulista/0,,MUL1586454-9839,00.html|title=Meninos da Vila comandam a festa de encerramento do Paulistão 2010|date=4 May 2010|work=GloboEsporte|language=pt|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100507192041/http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/Campeonato_Paulista/0%2C%2CMUL1586454-9839%2C00.html|archive-date=7 May 2010}} and his performances for the club drew comparisons to other Brazilians, including Robinho, Alexandre Pato, and Pelé.{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/transfers/scout/0,24035,15198_6067212,00.html |title=Sky Sports Scout – Neymar |date=8 April 2010 |publisher=Sky Sports |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412080328/http://www.skysports.com/football/transfers/scout/0%2C24035%2C15198_6067212%2C00.html |archive-date=12 April 2010 }}

In the 2010 summer transfer window, Santos rejected a £12 million bid for him from English Premier League team West Ham United,{{Cite web|date=1 July 2010|title=West Ham chasing Brazilian Neymar |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/west-ham/7867750/West-Ham-chasing-Brazilian-Neymar.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109015311/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/west-ham/7867750/West-Ham-chasing-Brazilian-Neymar.html|archive-date=9 November 2020|access-date=14 January 2021 |website=Telegraph}} and later an offer from Chelsea, reported to be in the region of £20 million.[http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11668_6313845,00.html Chelsea continue Neymar chase] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100817141919/http://www.skysports.com/story/0%2C19528%2C11668_6313845%2C00.html |date=17 August 2010 }} Sky Sports, 15 August 2010 Despite the unwillingness of Santos to sell and Neymar himself stating: "I'm focused only on Santos",{{cite web |url=http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=1228480&lang=eng_news&cate_img=145.jpg&cate_rss=news_Sports|title=Brazilians want young striker Neymar in World Cup|date=15 April 2010|work=Taiwan News|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825192428/http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=1228480&lang=eng_news&cate_img=145.jpg&cate_rss=news_Sports|archive-date=25 August 2013}} his agent, Wagner Ribeiro, indicated that Neymar's career was elsewhere, stating: "He wants to become the best player in the world. The chances of him doing that while playing in Brazil are zero." One year later Neymar said, in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, that he had been happy with Chelsea's interest in him as it was a "dream" of his "to play in Europe", while also stating that at the time it had been the right decision to stay in Brazil.[http://www.caughtoffside.com/2011/05/19/brazilian-starlet-neymar-makes-it-clear-he-wants-chelsea-move/ Brazilian Starlet Neymar Makes It Clear He Wants Chelsea Move] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110830151005/http://www.caughtoffside.com/2011/05/19/brazilian-starlet-neymar-makes-it-clear-he-wants-chelsea-move/ |date=30 August 2011 }} caughtoffside

On 5 May 2010, Neymar scored a goal in the 3-1 Copa do Brasil quarterfinals victory over Atletico-MG.{{Cite web |date=5 May 2010 |title=Santos vence Atlético-MG, garante vaga à semifinal e volta a festejar na Vila |url=https://www.uol.com.br/esporte/futebol/campeonatos/copa-do-brasil/ultimas-noticias/2010/05/05/santos-vence-atletico-mg-garante-vaga-a-semifinal-e-volta-a-festejar.jhtm |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=UOL Esporte}} He missed the first leg of the semifinals against Grêmio due to a suspension, but returned for the second leg and Santos advanced 6-5 on aggregate. In the first leg of the finals against Vitória, Neymar scored a goal and missed a penalty in a 2-0 win for Peixe.{{Cite web |last=Barros |first=Adilson |date=2010-07-28 |title=Santos perde um caminhão de gols, mas bate Vitória e fica em vantagem |url=https://ge.globo.com/futebol/copa-do-brasil/noticia/2010/07/peixe-perde-um-caminhao-de-gols-mas-vence-vitoria-e-fica-na-vantagem.html |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=Globo Esporte}} Although Santos lost the return leg 2-1, the 3-2 aggregate score was enough for Santos to lift the Copa do Brasil for the first time in its history, and Neymar finished as the tournament's top scorer with 11 goals.{{Cite web |date=2010-08-04 |title=Meninos do Brasil: Santos perde do Vitória, mas levanta caneco inédito |url=https://ge.globo.com/futebol/copa-do-brasil/noticia/2010/08/meninos-do-brasil-santos-perde-do-vitoria-mas-levanta-caneco-inedito.html |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=Globo Esporte}}File:Eusébio and Neymar Interview.jpg in 2010]]On 30 November 2010, Santos sold a 5% share of future transfer fees that he would receive to an investment group, Terceira Estrela Investimentos S.A. (TEISA), for R$ 3,549,900 (€1.5 million).{{cite news|url=http://www.santosfc.com.br/noticias/conteudo.asp?id=23416 |title=NOTA OFICIAL: Santos FC esclarece relação com a Terceira Estrela Investimentos S.A. |date=2 December 2010 |access-date=21 January 2011 |work=Santos FC |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120703024825/http://www.santosfc.com.br/noticias/conteudo.asp?id=23416 |archive-date=3 July 2012 }} The previous year, his family had sold a 40% stake in Neymar's sporting rights to the DIS Esporte group, who had been a long-term strategic partner of the club.{{cite news |url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Times/Santos/0,,MUL1007192-9874,00.html|title=Parceiro do Peixe negocia compra de Neymar e garoto deve renovar vínculo|date=18 February 2009|access-date=5 June 2011 |work=GloboEsporte|language=pt|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111112065350/http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Times/Santos/0%2C%2CMUL1007192-9874%2C00.html|archive-date=12 November 2011}}

In the league, Neymar shined, scoring 17 goals, including a hat trick against Goiás (4-1) and a brace against Atletico-MG (2-2). He finished second in the top scoring charts, behind Gremio's Jonas.

Neymar concluded the season with 42 goals in 60 matches in all competitions. Despite these impressive numbers, problems had been identified, namely Neymar's apparent taste for diving when tackled, rather than attempting to continue his run, and his attitude. The latter came to the forefront during a league match against Atlético Goianiense, on 15 September 2010, when Santos' manager, Dorival Júnior, appointed another player to take the penalty awarded for a foul on Neymar.{{cite web |last1=Lang |first1=Jack |title=Year Zero: The making of Neymar (Santos, 2010) |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/year-zero-making-neymar-santos-2010 |website=FourFourTwo |publisher=Future plc |language=en |date=18 August 2017}} His decision was based on the fact that Neymar had missed a crucial penalty during the Copa do Brasil final that year, even if Santos went on to win. Reacting to this, Neymar turned his back on his manager, had to be calmed down by a linesman and argued with his captain, Edu Dracena. The fallout from this event was that Dorival Júnior wished to have Neymar suspended for two weeks, but the board sided with the player and promptly sacked the manager, with Neymar later apologizing. In December 2010, aged just 18, Neymar came third for the 2010 South American Footballer of the Year, behind Andrés D'Alessandro and Juan Sebastián Verón.[https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/30122010/2/d-alessandro-named-latin-america-player-year.html "D'Alessandro named Latin America player of the year"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523012746/https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/30122010/2/d-alessandro-named-latin-america-player-year.html |date=23 May 2014 }}. Reuters. Retrieved 22 May 2014

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Despite scoring only four goals in the 2011 Campeonato Paulista, Neymar scored crucial goals during the 2011 season; he scored the only goal of the quarterfinals matchup against Ponte Preta,{{Cite web |last= |first= |last2= |date=2011-04-23 |title=Técnica dos Meninos da Vila supera a força da Macaca. Peixe na semifinal |url=https://ge.globo.com/sp/futebol/campeonato-paulista/noticia/2011/04/tecnica-dos-meninos-da-vila-supera-forca-da-macaca-peixe-na-semifinal.html |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=globoesporte.com}} and then scored the winning goal in the second leg of the finals against Corinthians to help his club clinch back-to-back state titles.{{Cite web |last=Barros |first=Adilson |date=2011-05-15 |title=Com direito a drama no fim, Peixe conquista o bi em cima do Timão |url=https://ge.globo.com/sp/futebol/campeonato-paulista/noticia/2011/05/com-direito-drama-no-fim-peixe-conquista-o-bi-em-cima-do-timao.html |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=globoesporte.com}} Neymar scored six goals during Santos' run to the 2011 Copa Libertadores Finals, tying him for third top goalscorer,{{cite web |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/fse/libertadores/stats |title=Estadísticas Copa Santander Libertadores – Información de equipos al instante – Fox Deportes |work=Fox Sports |access-date=12 March 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110309165341/http://msn.foxsports.com/fse/libertadores/stats |archive-date=9 March 2011 }} including the clinching goal of Santos' 4–3 aggregate win over Cerro Porteño in the semi-finals.{{Cite web|url=http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102833.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110909145558/http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102833.html|url-status=dead|title=Ficha del partido|archive-date=9 September 2011}} In the two-legged final, Santos faced Uruguayan side Peñarol and drew the first leg 0–0 in Montevideo.{{Cite web|url=http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102835.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110910043725/http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102835.html|url-status=dead|title=Ficha del partido|archive-date=10 September 2011}} At home in the second leg, Neymar opened the scoring in the 46th minute as Santos held on for a 2–1 win and Neymar won Man of the Match honours.{{Cite web|url=http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102836.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110909073827/http://df1.conmebol.com/libertadores/fichas/ficha102836.html|url-status=dead|title=Ficha del partido|archive-date=9 September 2011}}{{cite web |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/60013/santos-futebol-clube-vs-pe%C3%B1arol/report |title=Santos take home Copa Libertadores crown |work=Goal.com |access-date=12 March 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015121802/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/60013/santos-futebol-clube-vs-pe%C3%B1arol/report |archive-date=15 October 2012 }} The win brought Santos their first Copa Libertadores triumph since 1963, when Pelé was playing for the club.{{cite news |last=Sturtridge |first=Tim |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/neymar-delivers-copa-libertadores-triumph-to-santos-2301529.html |title=Neymar delivers Copa Libertadores triumph to Santos – World Cup 2014 – Football |work=The Independent |date=23 June 2011 |access-date=19 March 2014 |location=London |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220044921/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/neymar-delivers-copa-libertadores-triumph-to-santos-2301529.html |archive-date=20 December 2013 }}{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/sports/soccer/news/_/id/6695349/neymar-helps-brazil-santos-wins-copa-libertadores |title=Neymar helps Brazil's Santos wins Copa Libertadores |work=ESPN |date=23 June 2011 |access-date=12 March 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130225091618/http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/news/_/id/6695349/neymar-helps-brazil-santos-wins-copa-libertadores |archive-date=25 February 2013 }}{{Cite web |date=19 June 2023 |title=Neymar Jr, Santos years: The making of a future great |url=https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/neymar-jr-santos-years-the-making-of-a-future-great |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203023048/https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/neymar-jr-santos-years-the-making-of-a-future-great |archive-date=3 February 2024 |access-date=3 February 2024}}

On 27 July 2011, Neymar scored his first goals of that year's Campeonato Brasileiro, scoring two goals in a thrilling match against Ronaldinho's Flamengo, but could not prevent defeat for his team as they lost 5–4.{{Cite web |date=2011-07-27 |title=Uma ode ao futebol: Flamengo vence Santos num jogo espetacular na Vila |url=https://ge.globo.com/futebol/brasileirao-serie-a/noticia/2011/07/uma-ode-ao-futebol-flamengo-vence-santos-num-jogo-espetacular-na-vila.html |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=globoesporte.com}} His first goal, a spectacular solo dribble, later won the 2011 FIFA Puskás Award.

In September 2011, Santos club president Luís Ribeiro threatened to report Real Madrid to FIFA following reports that they had attempted to sign Neymar to a pre-contract agreement, and denied that such an agreement was in place.{{cite news|title=Santos president warns Real Madrid over Neymar deal |url=http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Santos-president-Luis-Ribeiro-warns-Real-Madrid-over-Neymar-deal-article799457.html |work=Mirror Football |date=15 September 2011 |access-date=8 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110918010134/http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Santos-president-Luis-Ribeiro-warns-Real-Madrid-over-Neymar-deal-article799457.html |archive-date=18 September 2011 }} On 29 October, Neymar scored four goals and had two disallowed in a 4-1 victory over Atletico Paranaense.{{Cite web |date=31 October 2011 |title=Neymar nets four goals to lead Santos |url=https://www.foxnews.com/sports/neymar-nets-four-goals-to-lead-santos |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=Fox News |language=en-US}} On 9 November, Neymar and Santos agreed to a contract extension that would see the player stay with the club until after the 2014 World Cup. The deal reportedly increased Neymar's wages by 50%, to the levels that top European clubs would be paying him.{{cite web |date=9 November 2011 |title=Neymar signs new contract with Santos |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/981959/neymar-signs-new-contract-with-santos?cc=5901 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120112093828/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/981959/neymar-signs-new-contract-with-santos?cc=5901 |archive-date=12 January 2012 |access-date=12 March 2013 |publisher=ESPN FC}} On 14 December, Neymar scored the opening goal for Santos as they defeated Kashiwa Reysol 3–1 in the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup in Toyota, Japan, but made a very small impact in the final against Barcelona on 18 December, where Santos were defeated 4–0.{{cite web |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=334214&cc=5901 |title=Report: Kashiwa Reysol v Santos FC – FIFA Club World Cup – ESPN Soccernet |publisher=ESPN FC |date=14 December 2011 |access-date=12 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html |archive-date=11 June 2015 }} On 31 December, he won the 2011 South American Footballer of the Year award for the first time, by a record margin, following in the footsteps of Diego Maradona, Romário, Pelé and Zico.[http://www.espnfc.com/blog/_/name/fiveaside/id/1099?cc=5739 "Neymar is Barca's latest Brazilian star"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523011407/http://www.espnfc.com/blog/_/name/fiveaside/id/1099?cc=5739 |date=23 May 2014 }}. ESPN. Retrieved 22 May 2014

On 5 February 2012, when he turned 20, Neymar scored his 100th goal as a professional football player, against Palmeiras in the Campeonato Paulista.{{cite news|title=Neymar scores 100 career goals, gets abused with cake ingredients|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/soccer-dirty-tackle/neymar-scores-100-career-goals-gets-abused-cake-192326497.html|access-date=3 March 2012|newspaper=Yahoo! Sports|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213120203/http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/soccer-dirty-tackle/neymar-scores-100-career-goals-gets-abused-cake-192326497.html|archive-date=13 February 2012}}{{cite news|title=Neymar scores 100th career goal in Brazil|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20120205/neymar-brazil/|access-date=3 March 2012|newspaper=Sports Illustrated|date=5 February 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420234538/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20120205/neymar-brazil/|archive-date=20 April 2012}} On 25 February – he scored two goals, one of which was from 25-yards – and created two assists to help his side to a 6–1 win over Ponte Preta.{{cite news|title=Santos FC 6 – 1 AA Ponte Preta|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=336661&cc=3888|access-date=25 February 2012|work=ESPN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} On 7 March, Neymar netted a hat-trick as Santos saw off Brazilian rivals Internacional with a 3–1 win in the Copa Libertadores group stage.{{cite news|title=Neymar treble lifts Santos to victory|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=1596364.html|access-date=8 March 2012|publisher=FIFA|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120514051426/http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid%3D1596364.html|archive-date=14 May 2012}} On 29 March, he scored a brace against Guaratinguetá in a 5–0 victory.{{cite news|title=Santos FC 5 – 0 Guaratinguetá|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=336720&cc=3888|access-date=29 March 2012|work=ESPN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} In the fixture against São Paulo on 29 April 2012, Neymar scored a hat-trick with the match ending 3–1.{{cite news|title=São Paulo 1 – 3 Santos FC|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=341105&cc=3888|access-date=29 April 2012|work=ESPN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} Thereafter, he went on to score twice in the first{{cite news|title=Guarani 0 – 3 Santos FC |url=http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/336762/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |access-date=5 May 2012 |work=ESPN |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231215557/http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/336762/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |archive-date=31 December 2013 }} and second legs{{cite news|title=Santos FC 4 – 2 Guarani |url=http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/336763/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |access-date=13 May 2012 |work=ESPN |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231215602/http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/336763/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |archive-date=31 December 2013 }} in the 2012 Campeonato Paulista Finals against Guarani, which ended 7–2 on aggregate. Neymar finished the 2012 Campeonato Paulista with 20 goals and was voted the Best Player and Best Forward, and Santos were crowned champions. He was joint top scorer in the Copa Libertadores with eight goals, after Santos were beaten over two legs by eventual champions Corinthians in the semi-finals 2-1 on aggregate, with Neymar scoring once in the second leg. In 2012, Pelé claimed that Neymar is the best player in the world; former legendary Argentine player Diego Maradona responded to this: "Maybe Neymar is the best player in the world, but only if you say that Messi is from a different planet."{{Cite news |last=Quraishi |first=George |date=2012-06-09 |title=Lionel Messi hat-trick leads Argentina to 4-3 win over Brazil |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2012/jun/10/argentina-brazil-lionel-messi-new-york-metlife |access-date=2025-06-03 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}

On 25 August 2012, he scored a brace in the 2–1 away win at Palmeiras.{{cite news|title=Palmeiras 1 – 2 Santos FC |url=http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341402/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |access-date=25 August 2012 |work=ESPN |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231215642/http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341402/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |archive-date=31 December 2013 }} On 3 November, in the league fixture away at Cruzeiro, Neymar scored a hat-trick and assisted Felipe Anderson's goal, to help his side to a 4–0 win.{{cite news|title=Cruzeiro 0 – 4 Santos FC |url=http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341555/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |access-date=3 November 2012 |work=ESPN |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231215647/http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341555/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |archive-date=31 December 2013 }} Neymar finished off the 2012 season in style, first setting-up Victor Andrade's equaliser, then scoring twice, to give Santos a 3–1 home win over Palmeiras on 1 December.{{cite news|title=Santos FC 3 – 1 Palmeiras |url=http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341592/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |access-date=1 December 2012 |work=ESPN |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121230174730/http://espnfc.com/en/gamecast/341592/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=null |archive-date=30 December 2012 }} Neymar was voted the Best Player of the 2012 Recopa Sudamericana, scoring in the second leg to assist Santos in winning the title, 2–0 on aggregate against U. de Chile. Neymar finished the 2012 season with 43 goals, one more than his breakthrough 2010 season, but this time doing it in just 47 matches instead of 60. Due to his performances, Neymar was awarded the Bola de Ouro for the second consecutive time. He was one of three finalists in the 2012 FIFA Puskás Award and finished runner-up behind Miroslav Stoch. He won the 2012 South American Footballer of the Year, retaining his award and winning it ahead of the likes of Ronaldinho.{{cite web |url=http://www.ovaciondigital.com.uy/121231/futinter-685408/futbolinternacional/seleccion-ideal-de-america/ |trans-title=The best eleven of America |title=Selección Ideal de América |publisher=El País |date=31 December 2012 |access-date=7 April 2013 |archive-date=6 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130306023719/http://www.ovaciondigital.com.uy/121231/futinter-685408/futbolinternacional/seleccion-ideal-de-america/ |url-status=dead }}

Neymar started the 2013 Campeonato Paulista scoring twice in the first match, which ended a 3–1 win over São Bernardo on 19 January 2013.{{cite news|title=Sao Bernardo 1–3 Santos FC|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=360577&cc=3888|access-date=19 January 2013|work=ESPN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} On 3 February, in the Paulista fixture against São Paulo, Santos won 3–1 with Neymar scoring and making two assists.{{cite news|title=Santos FC 3–1 São Paulo|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=360619&cc=3888|access-date=3 February 2013|work=ESPN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} On 18 March, Neymar told that he had a "dream of playing in Europe, for a big club like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea." He went on to say, "There's no point in speculating when I'll leave Santos. I'll leave when I want to."{{cite news|title=Neymar open to Chelsea move|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/198275.html|access-date=18 March 2013|work=ESPN|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202203744/http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/198275.html|archive-date=2 December 2014}}

Neymar scored all four goals, had another disallowed and hit the post as Santos beat União Barbarense 4–0 in the Paulista on 13 April.{{cite news |title=Barca zero-in on Neymar who nets four |url=http://zeenews.india.com/sports/football/barca-zero-in-on-neymar-who-nets-four_759717.html |publisher=Zeenews |date=14 April 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522142959/http://zeenews.india.com/sports/football/barca-zero-in-on-neymar-who-nets-four_759717.html |archive-date=22 May 2014 }} On 25 April, his agent and father revealed that Neymar intended to leave for Europe before the 2014 FIFA World Cup.{{cite web |url=http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1424891/neymar-europe-world-cup?cc=3436 |title=Neymar 'off to Europe after World Cup' |work=ESPN FC |date=25 April 2013 |access-date=30 June 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231215646/http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1424891/neymar-europe-world-cup?cc=3436 |archive-date=31 December 2013 }} Neymar finished the state league campaign with 12 goals, and was runner-up in the top scorers charts, as Santos finished state league runner-up to Corinthians. Ahead of his last match for Santos, on 26 May against Flamengo in the first round of the 2013 Brazilian Championship, Neymar was in tears during the national anthem, with the match ending in a draw.{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/snap-kaka-pop-blog/2013/may/31/brazil-goodbye-neymar |title=Brazil says goodbye to Neymar, the 21-year-old who outgrew his home |first=Jack |last=Lang |work=Guardian Sport Network |date=31 May 2014 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522142021/http://www.theguardian.com/football/snap-kaka-pop-blog/2013/may/31/brazil-goodbye-neymar |archive-date=22 May 2014 }}

Prior to his move to Barcelona, Neymar received much enthusiastic praise. Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho tipped him on becoming the best player in the world, stating: "Neymar is young though, and I can't explain how special he will become. In the next two or three seasons he will become the best player."{{cite web |date=5 February 2013 |title=Ronaldinho: Neymar will emulate Messi |url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/584/brazil/2013/02/05/3729583/ronaldinho-tips-neymar-to-become-worlds-best |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130210030959/http://www.goal.com/en/news/584/brazil/2013/02/05/3729583/ronaldinho-tips-neymar-to-become-worlds-best |archive-date=10 February 2013 |access-date=30 June 2013 |work=Goal.com}} Another Brazilian legend Ronaldo also believed that Neymar could become the best in the world, commenting: "Logically, Messi is better right now but Neymar is a great talent who will show the world that he will be number one".{{cite web |title=Ronaldo: Neymar can be better than Messi |url=http://www.givemesport.com/194801-ronaldo-neymar-can-be-better-than-messi |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328103604/http://www.givemesport.com/194801-ronaldo-neymar-can-be-better-than-messi |archive-date=28 March 2014 |access-date=30 June 2013 |work=GiveMeSport}} Former Real Madrid sporting director Jorge Valdano also praised Neymar when he was at Santos, stating: "I like Neymar a lot. Many of his individual actions result in a goal and often it's a move that only seems to be happening with him on the pitch."{{cite web |date=26 May 2013 |title=Signing Neymar would be a huge coup for Real Madrid – Valdano |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2013/05/24/4001245/signing-neymar-would-be-a-huge-coup-for-real-madrid-valdano |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130610082649/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2013/05/24/4001245/signing-neymar-would-be-a-huge-coup-for-real-madrid-valdano |archive-date=10 June 2013 |work=Goal.com}}

{{main article|Neymargate}}

On 24 May 2013, Santos announced that they had received two offers for Neymar. The following day, Neymar announced he would sign with Barcelona on 27 May and join the team after playing in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup. Neither Neymar nor the clubs released details on the transfer fee or personal terms, save to say he signed a five-year deal.{{Cite web|date=25 May 2013|title=Brazilian forward Neymar says he is joining Barcelona, will sign the contract on Monday|url=https://www.foxnews.com/sports/brazilian-forward-neymar-says-he-is-joining-barcelona-will-sign-the-contract-on-monday|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114084903/https://www.foxnews.com/sports/brazilian-forward-neymar-says-he-is-joining-barcelona-will-sign-the-contract-on-monday|archive-date=14 January 2021|access-date=14 January 2021|website=Fox News}} On 3 June, Neymar was unveiled by Barcelona after passing medical tests and signing a contract that would keep him at the club through June 2018.{{cite news|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/barcelona-transfer-news-neymar-unveiled-1929711|title=Brazilian Neymar unveiled by Barcelona as striker completes transfer in five-year deal|date=3 June 2013|work=Mirror|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130808234049/http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/barcelona-transfer-news-neymar-unveiled-1929711|archive-date=8 August 2013}}

Neymar was presented at the Camp Nou in front of 56,500 fans, a record turnout for a Brazilian player.{{cite web |author=FootballEspana – Tue, 4 June 2013 09:10 BST |url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/liga-neymar-presentation-draws-56-500-fans-081003011.html |title=Liga – Neymar presentation draws 56,500 fans – Yahoo Eurosport UK |publisher=Yahoo! |date=4 June 2013 |access-date=19 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023205811/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/liga-neymar-presentation-draws-56-500-fans-081003011.html |archive-date=23 October 2013 }} Club vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu initially said Neymar's transfer fee was €57.1 million and his release clause set at €190 million.{{cite news |url=http://www.fcbarcelona.com/club/detail/article/detailed-figures-of-neymar-transfer |title=Detailed figures of Neymar transfer |publisher=FC Barcelona |date=24 January 2014 |access-date=25 May 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524082202/http://www.fcbarcelona.com/club/detail/article/detailed-figures-of-neymar-transfer |archive-date=24 May 2015 }}{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/020a-0e85073904d5-c99b88750864-1000--neymar-excited-by-messi-alliance/|date=3 June 2013|publisher=UEFA|title=Neymar excited by Messi alliance|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221113651/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D1959194.html|archive-date=21 December 2014}} Barcelona's doctor suggested he might need to gain weight to be able to cope physically in Spanish football.{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/barcelona-doctor-reveals-concerns-over-neymars-weight-8665661.html |title=Barcelona doctor reveals concerns over Neymar's weight |agency=Reuters |newspaper=The Independent |date=19 June 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522142457/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/barcelona-doctor-reveals-concerns-over-neymars-weight-8665661.html |archive-date=22 May 2014 }}

In January 2014, the prosecutor's office in Madrid began investigating the transfer fee that Barcelona paid for Neymar.{{cite news|title=Staatsanwaltschaft untersucht Transfer von Neymar|url=https://www.welt.de/sport/fussball/internationale-ligen/article123762443/Staatsanwaltschaft-untersucht-Transfer-von-Neymar.html|access-date=10 January 2014|newspaper=Die Welt|date=10 January 2014|language=de|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110195356/http://www.welt.de/sport/fussball/internationale-ligen/article123762443/Staatsanwaltschaft-untersucht-Transfer-von-Neymar.html|archive-date=10 January 2014}} The documents submitted to the authorities on request contained contradictory information. On 23 January 2014, Rosell resigned from his position as president.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jan/23/sandro-rosell-resigns-barcelona-president-neymar |title=Sandro Rosell resigns as president of Barcelona with immediate effect |date=23 January 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |work=The Guardian |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211041628/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jan/23/sandro-rosell-resigns-barcelona-president-neymar |archive-date=11 December 2014 }} A day later, the details of the transfer were revealed by Barcelona; the transfer had in fact cost them €86.2 million (£71.5 million),{{cite web|title=Barcelona: Neymar deal has damaged brand of La Liga club|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26512767|work=BBC Sport|access-date=21 January 2016|date=10 March 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122231534/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26512767|archive-date=22 January 2016}}{{cite news |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/9132103/primera-division-barcelona-reveal-details-of-deal-to-sign-brazil-star-neymar |title=Barcelona reveal details of deal to sign Brazil star Neymar |date=24 January 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |publisher=Sky Sports |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211041519/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/9132103/primera-division-barcelona-reveal-details-of-deal-to-sign-brazil-star-neymar |archive-date=11 December 2014 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-primera-divisi%C3%B3n/story/1691847/barcelona-details-neymars-862m-euro-deal |title=Barcelona offers Neymar deal details |date=24 January 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |work=ESPN |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024063025/http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-primera-divisi%C3%B3n/story/1691847/barcelona-details-neymars-862m-euro-deal |archive-date=24 October 2014 }} with Neymar's parents confirmed to have received a €40 million sum.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25887952 |title=Barcelona paid Neymar's parents £34m for Brazil striker |date=24 January 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |work=BBC |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140127020255/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25887952 |archive-date=27 January 2014 }}{{cite news |last=Jenson |first=Pete |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/barcelonas-neymar-saga-you-want-to-sign-our-sonthat-will-be-40-million-euros-please-9085538.html |title=Barcelona's Neymar saga: You want to sign our son? That will be 40 million euros, please |date=26 January 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |work=The Independent |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140829074129/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/barcelonas-neymar-saga-you-want-to-sign-our-sonthat-will-be-40-million-euros-please-9085538.html |archive-date=29 August 2014 }} In the aftermath, Barcelona and Bartomeu were charged with tax fraud.{{cite news |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/9175433/primera-division-barcelona-charged-with-tax-fraud-over-neymar-signing |title=Barcelona charged with tax fraud over Neymar signing |date=20 February 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |publisher=Sky Sports |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211040749/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11833/9175433/primera-division-barcelona-charged-with-tax-fraud-over-neymar-signing |archive-date=11 December 2014 }}

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On 30 July 2013, Barcelona drew 2–2 against Lechia Gdańsk in a pre-season friendly; Neymar made his unofficial debut when he came on as a substitute.{{cite web |url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/football-substitute-neymar-denied-victory-barcelona-debut-212443344.html |title=Liga – Friendlies: Sub Neymar denied victory on Barcelona debut – Yahoo Eurosport UK |publisher=Yahoo! |date=30 July 2013 |access-date=19 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023205807/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/football-substitute-neymar-denied-victory-barcelona-debut-212443344.html |archive-date=23 October 2013 }} He scored his first goal for the club in a 7–1 win against a Thailand XI on 7 August at the Rajamangala National Stadium.{{cite news |url=http://sports.ndtv.com/football/news/212015-neymar-bags-first-fc-barcelona-goal-in-7-1-thai-rout |title=Neymar bags first goal for FC Barcelona in 7–1 Thai rout |agency=Agence France-Presse |work=NDTV Sports |date=7 August 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140610183906/http://sports.ndtv.com/football/news/212015-neymar-bags-first-fc-barcelona-goal-in-7-1-thai-rout |archive-date=10 June 2014 }} Neymar made his competitive debut for Barcelona during the opening game of the 2013–14 La Liga season as a 63rd-minute substitute for Alexis Sánchez in a 7–0 win against Levante.{{cite news|url=https://huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/18/barcelona-levante-messi-goals_n_3776882.html|title=Barcelona Routs Levante 7–0: Messi Scores Two Goals, Neymar Debuts|date=18 August 2013|work=The Huffington Post|first=Chris|last=Greenberg|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822065239/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/18/barcelona-levante-messi-goals_n_3776882.html|archive-date=22 August 2013}} On 21 August, he scored his first competitive goal for the club in the first leg of the 2013 Supercopa de España against Atlético Madrid: seven minutes after coming on as a substitute for Pedro, he headed Dani Alves' cross to equalise in a 1–1 draw at the Vicente Calderón Stadium as Barcelona won on the away goals rule for his first trophy at the club.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/aug/22/neymar-david-villa-barcelona-atletico-madrid|title=Neymar cancels out David Villa as Barcelona held by Atlético Madrid|date=21 August 2013|work=The Guardian|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161215070846/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/aug/22/neymar-david-villa-barcelona-atletico-madrid|archive-date=15 December 2016}} On 18 September, he made his UEFA Champions League debut, assisting a Gerard Piqué goal as Barça beat Ajax 4–0 in their opening match of the 2013–14 tournament.

Six days later, Neymar scored his first goal in La Liga in Barcelona's 4–1 defeat of Real Sociedad at Camp Nou.{{cite news|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2013/09/24/sport/football/barceona-sociedad-liga-football/|title=Lionel Messi, Neymar lead Barcelona past Real Sociedad|date=24 September 2013|access-date=27 October 2013|work=CNN|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928082837/http://edition.cnn.com/2013/09/24/sport/football/barceona-sociedad-liga-football/|archive-date=28 September 2013}} On 26 October, he made his first El Clásico appearance, scoring the opening goal and assisting the team's winning goal scored by Alexis Sánchez as Barcelona beat Real Madrid 2–1 at Camp Nou.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24603052|title=Barcelona 2–1 Real Madrid|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131026195023/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24603052|archive-date=26 October 2013}} On 11 December, Neymar recorded his first three Champions League goals as he scored a hat-trick in a 6–1 win over Celtic in Barcelona's final Group H match.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25303700|title=Barcelona 6–1 Celtic|date=21 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131211212109/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25303700|archive-date=11 December 2013}}

File:Neymar - FC Barcelona - 2015.jpg in La Liga in 2015]]

On 13 September 2014, after appearing as a substitute, Neymar scored his first two goals of the 2014–15 season, helping Barcelona beat Athletic Bilbao 2–0. On 27 September, he scored a hat-trick against Granada in a 6–0 win{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29311918 |title=Barcelona 6–0 Granada |date=27 September 2014 |access-date=27 September 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140928084412/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29311918 |archive-date=28 September 2014 }} and scored in his next three La Liga matches, including the opening goal in a 1–3 loss to Real Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/25/real-madrid-barcelona-la-liga-match-report|title=Real Madrid outclass Barcelona after Ronaldo's penalty turns tide|date=26 October 2014|work=The Guardian|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305033229/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/25/real-madrid-barcelona-la-liga-match-report|archive-date=5 March 2017}}

On 24 January 2015, Neymar scored twice and assisted two more goals in a 6–0 win at Elche.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jan/24/elche-barcelona-la-liga-match-report|title=Barcelona hit Elche for six with Lionel Messi and Neymar doubles|date=25 January 2015|work=The Guardian|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305033212/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jan/24/elche-barcelona-la-liga-match-report|archive-date=5 March 2017}} On 28 January, he scored his 20th goal of the season in a 3–2 Copa del Rey quarter-final win over Atlético Madrid.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/european/11375834/Atletico-Madrid-2-Barcelona-3-match-report-Neymar-double-sees-of-nine-man-Atletico-in-Copa-del-Rey.html|title=Atletico Madrid 2 Barcelona 3, match report: Neymar double sees of nine-man Atletico in Copa del Rey|date=28 January 2015|access-date=15 February 2015|work=The Daily Telegraph|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215084145/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/european/11375834/Atletico-Madrid-2-Barcelona-3-match-report-Neymar-double-sees-of-nine-man-Atletico-in-Copa-del-Rey.html|archive-date=15 February 2015}} On 4 March, Neymar scored twice in Barcelona's 3–1 Copa del Rey semi-final win over Villarreal to qualify the club for its 37th Spanish Cup final.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31721178|title=Villarreal 1–3 Barcelona|date=4 March 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150305172027/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31721178|archive-date=5 March 2015}} On 21 April, Neymar took his tally to 30 goals for the season by scoring twice in Barcelona's 2–0 Champions League quarter-final win over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).{{Cite web|date=21 April 2015|title=Barcelona 2-0 Paris St-Germain (agg 5-1)|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/32380834|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027012557/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/32380834|archive-date=27 October 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=BBC}}

In May, the closing month of the season, Neymar scored the last goal in a 3–0 win against Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0221-0e909116af7b-fe3ef95b6374-1000--messi-double-puts-barca-in-control-against-bayern/|title=Messi double puts Barça in control against Bayern|date=6 May 2015|publisher=UEFA|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509001803/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season%3D2015/matches/round%3D2000551/match%3D2014428/postmatch/report/index.html|archive-date=9 May 2015}} A week later, he scored both the team's goals in a 3–2-second leg defeat at the Allianz Arena to ensure Barça would qualify for the 2015 UEFA Champions League Final.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32683310|title=Bayern Mun 3–2 Barcelona|date=12 May 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512210015/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32683310|archive-date=12 May 2015}} He also opened the scoring with a header in a 2–0 league win versus Real Sociedad, a result which gave Barça a four-point lead over Real Madrid with only two matches remaining.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/club/barcelona/83/blog/post/2441883/neymar-and-pedro-secure-vital-barcelona-win|title=Neymar and Pedro secure vital Barcelona win FC|work=ESPN FC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512012143/http://www.espnfc.com/club/barcelona/83/blog/post/2441883/neymar-and-pedro-secure-vital-barcelona-win|archive-date=12 May 2015}}

File:Barcelona fans - Champions league 2015 Berlin.JPG in Berlin holding up pictures of the attacking trio, Messi, Suárez and Neymar (MSN)]]

After securing the league title on 17 May with a 1–0 win over Atlético Madrid at the Vicente Calderón, Barcelona defeated Athletic Bilbao 3–1 at Camp Nou in the 2015 Copa del Rey Final on 30 May, with Neymar scoring the second goal for Barça.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32938036|title=Ath Bilbao 1–3 Barcelona|date=30 May 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602025437/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32938036|archive-date=2 June 2015}} With Barcelona's victory likely, he performed tricks with the ball in the final stages of the game, which was deemed unsporting by opponent Andoni Iraola. Barcelona manager Luis Enrique claimed that it had to be understood that such behaviour was acceptable in Brazil, while Neymar himself did not apologise.{{cite news|title=Iraola: Neymar 'rainbow' unsporting|url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/iraola-neymar-rainbow-unsporting|access-date=20 June 2015|work=Four Four Two|date=31 May 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621021931/http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/iraola-neymar-rainbow-unsporting|archive-date=21 June 2015}}

On 6 June, Neymar scored the third goal for Barça in the 3–1 Champions League Final defeat of Italian champions Juventus at Berlin's Olympiastadion, ensuring the club won its fifth European Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0252-0cd2c6a4864d-8c8d00efd1bd-1000--barcelona-see-off-juventus-to-claim-fifth-title/|title=Barcelona see off Juventus to claim fifth title|date=6 June 2015|publisher=UEFA|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150608200023/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season%3D2015/matches/round%3D2000552/match%3D2015227/postmatch/report/index.html|archive-date=8 June 2015}} This made Barcelona the first club in history to twice win the treble of domestic league, domestic cup and European Cup.{{cite news|url=http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/barca-make-history-with-second-treble|title=Barça make history with second treble!|date=6 June 2015|work=FC Barcelona|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607120500/http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/barca-make-history-with-second-treble|archive-date=7 June 2015|access-date=7 June 2015}} On a personal note, he became the eighth player in football's history to win both the Copa Libertadores and the UEFA Champions League, and the first player to score in final victories in both competitions.{{cite news|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/06/07/12492922/neymar-joins-exclusive-libertadores-champions-league-club|title=Neymar joins exclusive Libertadores-Champions League club|date=7 June 2015|work=Goal|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150609201218/http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/06/07/12492922/neymar-joins-exclusive-libertadores-champions-league-club|archive-date=9 June 2015}} Neymar ended the season with 39 goals in all competitions and 10 in the Champions League, making him joint highest scorer with Ronaldo and teammate Messi in the latter competition.{{cite news|url=http://www.afp.com/en/news/hot-shot-neymar-realises-champions-league-dream|title=Hot-shot Neymar realises Champions League dream|date=6 June 2015|agency=Agence France-Presse|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610180743/http://www.afp.com/en/news/hot-shot-neymar-realises-champions-league-dream|archive-date=10 June 2015}} He was the first player apart from those two to top the competition's scoring list, since compatriot Kaká in 2006–07.{{cite news|title=Neymar, Messi and Ronaldo top scoring charts|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0252-0cd2c6a4864d-6fcf927ecffc-1000--neymar-messi-and-ronaldo-top-scoring-charts/|access-date=13 April 2016|publisher=UEFA|date=6 June 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151205045913/http://www.uefa.com/news/newsid%3D2251883.html#three+joint+scorers|archive-date=5 December 2015}} Barcelona's attacking trio of Messi, Luis Suárez and Neymar, dubbed "MSN", ended with 122 goals, the most in a season for an attacking trio in Spanish football history.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/06/barcelona-luis-suarez-lionel-messi-juventus-champions-league-final|title=Barcelona's Luis Suárez, Leo Messi and Neymar too good for Juventus|date=6 June 2015|work=The Guardian|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151103021240/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/06/barcelona-luis-suarez-lionel-messi-juventus-champions-league-final|archive-date=3 November 2015}}

Due to having the mumps, Neymar was expected to miss the 2015 UEFA Super Cup and the 2015 Supercopa de España.{{cite news|title=Neymar: Barcelona striker out for two weeks with mumps |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33840933|access-date=9 August 2015|date=9 August 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810073947/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33840933|archive-date=10 August 2015}} On 17 October, Neymar scored four goals in Barcelona's 5–2 home win over Rayo Vallecano in La Liga, taking his total to eight goals for the season.{{cite news|title=Barcelona 5–2 Rayo Vallecano|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34549230|date=17 October 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017064506/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34549230|archive-date=17 October 2015}} On 8 November, Neymar scored a "stunning" goal in a 3-0 win against Villarreal, receiving the ball from just inside the area and flicking it up over his shoulder and over a defender before volleying it into the goal.{{Cite web |date=8 November 2015 |title=Neymar scores stunning volley for Barcelona against Villarreal |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11833/10061405/watch-sublime-neymar-volley |website=Sky Sports}} On 21 November, Neymar scored one and provided a back heel assist for Iniesta in Barcelona's 4–0 away win against Real Madrid.{{cite news|title=Suarez scores twice as Barca thrash Real|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34849342|agency=BBC|access-date=21 November 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120223751/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34849342|archive-date=20 November 2015}} He scored twice in a 4–0 home win over Real Sociedad on 28 November, taking his La Liga total to 14 goals in 12 games.{{cite news|title=Barcelona 4–0 Real Sociedad|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34896736|date=1 December 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151201050257/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34896736|archive-date=1 December 2015}}

At this point of the season, several media outlets praised Neymar as elevating to the same level of Messi and Ronaldo, arguably being the best player in the world.{{Cite news |date=2015-11-19 |title=Neymar, Messi, Ronaldo: Is Brazilian now world's best player? |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/34835193 |access-date=2025-05-31 |work=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}} On 30 November, Neymar was shortlisted for the 2015 FIFA Ballon d'Or alongside Messi and Ronaldo, and subsequently came third.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35285469 "Lionel Messi wins Ballon d'Or over Cristiano Ronaldo & Neymar"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112163607/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35285469 |date=12 January 2016 }}. BBC Sport. Retrieved 12 January 2016{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/ballon-dor/news/y=2015/m=11/news=nominees-for-the-fifa-ballon-d-or-2015-awards-revealed-2735884.html|title=Nominees for the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2015 awards revealed|publisher=FIFA|date=30 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151202214344/http://www.fifa.com/ballon-dor/news/y%3D2015/m%3D11/news%3Dnominees-for-the-fifa-ballon-d-or-2015-awards-revealed-2735884.html|archive-date=2 December 2015}} On 22 May 2016, Neymar scored a late goal in Barcelona's 2–0 extra time win over Sevilla in the 2016 Copa del Rey Final at the Vicente Calderón, as the club celebrated winning the domestic double for the second consecutive season, following their treble victory from the previous season.{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2015_16/copa/final/bar_sev/|title=Messi sirve el doblete|trans-title=Messi hands out double|work=Marca|language=es|date=22 May 2016|access-date=23 May 2016|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522121855/http://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2015_16/copa/final/bar_sev/|archive-date=22 May 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-soccer-spain-fcb-reaction-idUKKCN0YE1BQ|title=Barca's double double hailed in Spanish media|work=Reuters|author1=Adriana Garcia|date=23 May 2016|access-date=23 May 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160617202314/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-soccer-spain-fcb-reaction-idUKKCN0YE1BQ|archive-date=17 June 2016}} The front three of Messi, Suárez and Neymar finished the season with 131 goals, breaking the record they had set the previous year for most goals by an attacking trio in a single season.{{cite news|title=Messi, Suárez and Neymar Jr end season with 131 goals|work=Barca Fan Club |url=https://www.barcafan-club.com/2016/05/messi-suarez-and-neymar-jr-end-season-with-131-goals/|url-status=live|access-date=15 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115134522/https://www.barcafan-club.com/2016/05/messi-suarez-and-neymar-jr-end-season-with-131-goals/|archive-date=15 January 2021}}{{Quote box|"While there is a 1% chance, we will have
99% faith."|— Neymar after the 4–0 loss against PSG
on 15 February 2017{{Cite web|date=15 February 2017|title=Neymar says Barcelona have 1% chance of reaching Champions League quarters after 4-0 hammering by PSG |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/neymar-says-barcelona-1-chance-9824734|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930053148/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/neymar-says-barcelona-1-chance-9824734|archive-date=30 September 2020|access-date=15 January 2021|website=Mirror}}

}}

File:Barça 6 - PSG 1; Dimecres 8 de març de 2017 - 33185087512.jpg

In Barcelona's 6–1 victory over PSG in the Champions League round of 16, Neymar had a miraculous and heroic role in Barcelona's comeback, by scoring two goals and assisted the decisive goal of Sergi Roberto during the closing seven-minute sequence, of which he was named man of the match, based on his efforts.{{cite web|last=Ryan|first=Danny|date=30 March 2017|title=Neymar's seven defining minutes of unparalleled genius against Paris Saint-Germain |url=https://thesefootballtimes.co/neymars-seven-defining-minutes-of-unparalleled-genius-against-paris-saint-germain/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626184442/https://thesefootballtimes.co/2017/03/30/neymars-seven-defining-minutes-of-unparalleled-genius-against-paris-saint-germain/|archive-date=26 June 2019|access-date=11 April 2018|work=These Football Times}}{{Cite web|title=MAN OF THE MATCH Barcelona 6-1 Paris Saint-Germain: Neymar |url=https://www.goal.com/id/news/1364/liga-champions/2017/03/08/33441702/man-of-the-match-barcelona-6-1-paris-saint-germain-neymar |access-date=1 January 2022|website=www.goal.com|archive-date=1 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220101232102/https://www.goal.com/id/news/1364/liga-champions/2017/03/08/33441702/man-of-the-match-barcelona-6-1-paris-saint-germain-neymar|url-status=live}} Overcoming the 4–0 loss to PSG in the first leg from 14 February 2017, this second leg match became the biggest comeback in Champions League history.{{Cite web|date=8 March 2017|title=Barcelona vs. Paris Saint-Germain – Football Match Report – March 8, 2017 |url=http://www.espn.co.uk/football/report?gameId=469090|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201229134950/https://www.espn.co.uk/football/report?gameId=469090|archive-date=29 December 2020|access-date=5 June 2018 |work=ESPN}} According to Robin Bairner of Goal, Neymar’s performance cemented his legacy as the third-best player of his generation, behind Messi and Ronaldo.{{Cite web |date=2020-02-17 |title=Neymar must begin to write his PSG Champions League legacy now {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-must-begin-to-write-his-psg-champions-league-legacy-now/jl9shpvj2b1l13kvuh1hpsv9n |access-date=2025-06-02 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}

On 2 April, Neymar scored his 100th goal for Barcelona in his 177th appearance for the club, netting in a 4–1 win over Granada.{{cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11833/10823197/luis-enrique-hails-neymar-after-brazilian-scores-100th-barcelona-goal|title=Luis Enrique hails Neymar after Brazilian scores 100th Barcelona goal|publisher=Sky Sports|date=3 April 2017|access-date=3 April 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404044922/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11833/10823197/luis-enrique-hails-neymar-after-brazilian-scores-100th-barcelona-goal|archive-date=4 April 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/barcelona/story/3094837/neymar-scores-100th-goal-for-barcelona-and-luis-enrique-hopes-he-nets-900-more|title=Neymar scores 100th Barcelona goal; Luis Enrique hopes for 'another 900'|website=ESPN|last=Marsden|first=Stuart|date=2 April 2017|access-date=3 April 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403145234/http://www.espnfc.com/barcelona/story/3094837/neymar-scores-100th-goal-for-barcelona-and-luis-enrique-hopes-he-nets-900-more|archive-date=3 April 2017}} On 27 May, Neymar scored in the 2017 Copa del Rey Final, his 105th goal for the club, as Barcelona defeated Alavés 3–1 at the Vicente Calderón in Madrid.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39909498|title=Barcelona 3 Alaves 1|date=27 May 2017|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=31 May 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530212245/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39909498|archive-date=30 May 2017}}

Desire to leave Barcelona

According to former Barcelona teammate Xavi, Neymar informed his teammates of his desire to leave Barcelona at Messi's wedding in June 2017.{{Cite news |last=Payne |first=Marissa |date=27 November 2021 |title=Neymar said he was leaving for PSG at Lionel Messi's wedding, ex-Barcelona teammate says |language=en-US |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2017/10/20/neymar-said-he-was-leaving-for-psg-at-lionel-messis-wedding-ex-barcelona-teammate-says/ |access-date=12 November 2023 |issn=0190-8286 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113132140/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2017/10/20/neymar-said-he-was-leaving-for-psg-at-lionel-messis-wedding-ex-barcelona-teammate-says/ |url-status=live }} By July 2017, media speculation emerged that Neymar wanted to join PSG, with the club holding talks with Barcelona officials. At 25-years old, Neymar was motivated to leave Barcelona to step out of Messi's shadow and be the sole star player, increasing the likelihood of him winning the Ballon d'Or.{{Cite web |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar threw away his chance to become a Barcelona great! Saudi Arabia transfer the only option after world-record failure at PSG |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028103828/https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |archive-date=28 October 2023 |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=www.goal.com}} Barcelona president, Bartomeu, admitted he was powerless to stop him from wanting to leave: "Neymar is one of our best players and so we don't want to lose that player," he said. "We want him to continue with us. He still has four years of his contract so there is nothing else to say [...] You know that players decide if they want to leave, they can decide."{{Cite news |last=Aarons |first=Ed |date=28 July 2017 |title=Neymar storms out of Barcelona training after clashing with team-mate |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/jul/28/neymar-barcelona-training-paris-saint-germain |access-date=12 November 2023 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=12 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231112142236/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/jul/28/neymar-barcelona-training-paris-saint-germain |url-status=live }} On 2 August 2017, Neymar asked Barcelona to allow him to leave.{{Cite web |last=Dawson |first=Alan |title=Neymar has asked to leave FC Barcelona |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/psg-transfer-news-neymar-tells-fc-barcelona-that-he-is-leaving-2017-8 |access-date=12 November 2023 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US |archive-date=12 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231112142234/https://www.businessinsider.com/psg-transfer-news-neymar-tells-fc-barcelona-that-he-is-leaving-2017-8 |url-status=live }} Fox Sports reported that in the short time that he was at Barcelona, Neymar left his mark in the club's history and was a "crucial piece" to their success in those years.{{Cite web |last=Konstantelos |first=Nektarios |date=2017-08-05 |title=Neymar Jr: What Is His Legacy At Barcelona? |url=https://foxsports1340am.com/neymar-jr-legacy-barcelona/ |access-date=2025-06-03 |language=en-US}}

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On 3 August 2017, Barcelona announced that Neymar's legal representatives made a payment of €222 million{{Cite web|date=20 March 2019|title=10 Most Valuable Football Transfer Contracts So Far|url=https://sportycious.com/most-valuable-football-transfer-958846|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929115636/https://sportycious.com/most-valuable-football-transfer-958846|archive-date=29 September 2020|access-date=16 October 2019|website=Sportycious}} to the club, equal to the release clause of his contract, which constituted the most expensive transfer ever. The club informed UEFA so that they can determine any disciplinary responsibilities that may arise from this case. According to the BBC, in Spain, the release clause must be activated by the footballer himself. The situation was unusual, in that the fee was paid to the club directly, after La Liga had refused to receive the payment.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40823628|title=Neymar: Paris St-Germain's new signing said he left Barcelona for a new challenge|date=4 August 2017 |access-date=4 August 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805102048/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40823628|archive-date=5 August 2017}} Usually, the buyout clause is deposited with La Liga in order to release the player from his contract, and the league then passes the money to the selling club. However, La Liga rejected the payment—citing violation of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules by PSG, who are backed by money from Gulf state Qatar.{{cite news|date=3 August 2017|title=Neymar: Barcelona say Paris St-Germain target has paid his buyout clause|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40814854|url-status=live|access-date=25 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125171706/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40814854|archive-date=25 November 2020}}

It was generally understood that PSG signed Neymar to increase their chances of winning the Champions League.{{Cite news |title=Neymar - superstar with a legacy unfulfilled? |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66505930 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028102324/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66505930 |archive-date=28 October 2023 |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=BBC Sport}} As a brand, the signing of Neymar was also expected to be beneficial in promoting PSG, as well as Ligue 1, across the world.{{Cite web |title=Neymar to PSG: How it affects Ligue 1 – DW – 08/05/2017 |url=https://www.dw.com/en/neymar-to-psg-what-the-world-record-transfer-means-for-frances-ligue-1/a-39980204 |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=dw.com |language=en}} Manchester United manager José Mourinho gave his thoughts on the unprecedented transfer fee to sign Neymar: "Expensive are the ones who get into a certain level without a certain quality. For £200m, I don't think [Neymar] is expensive."{{Cite news |date=2017-08-03 |title=Neymar: Paris St-Germain sign Barcelona forward for world record 222m euros |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40762417 |access-date=2025-06-03 |work=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}}

Neymar joined PSG on a contract that would run until 2022,{{cite news|url=https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/neymar-jr-signs-with-paris-saint-germain|title=Neymar Jr signs with Paris Saint-Germain!|date=3 August 2017|access-date=3 August 2017|publisher=Paris Saint-Germain|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803205243/https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/neymar-jr-signs-with-paris-saint-germain|archive-date=3 August 2017}} earning roughly €30 million a year—this doubled his Barcelona salary and put him amongst the highest-paid players in the world.{{Cite news |last=Anka |first=Carl |date=2023-09-01 |title=Neymar: Maverick, genius, king of the ‘could have been’ |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4774310/2023/08/18/neymar-saudi-barca-psg-brazil/ |access-date=2025-06-04 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} He was also paid €40m up front, which was believed to be given to his father.{{Cite web |date=2017-08-03 |title=Neymar's behaviour has ruined his Barcelona legacy forever {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/from-the-new-messi-to-the-new-figo---neymars-behaviour-has-ruined-his-legacy-at-camp-nou-forever/1i991aosf42yw15vzmmp6wiikr |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}} Many in the media believed that money was the catalyst for Neymar joining PSG, especially considering the difference in stature and quality between Barcelona and PSG.{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}} Cafu defended the claims that Neymar was a mercenary for joing PSG, stating that it was an opportunity for him to be "an idol, a star" and to be important to PSG's chances of winning the Champions League.{{Cite web |date=2017-08-06 |title='I would have gone too' - Brazil legend Cafu defends Neymar's PSG switch {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/i-would-have-gone-too---brazil-legend-cafu-defends-neymars-psg-switch/vojhodxj6rs51ah8o00ku7f14 |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} He was given the number 10 shirt by Javier Pastore as a "welcome gift".{{cite news |last=Guérin |first=Vincent |date=3 August 2017 |title=Pastore: 'A welcome gift' |url=https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/pastore-a-welcome-gift |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805020236/https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/pastore-a-welcome-gift |archive-date=5 August 2017 |access-date=14 September 2017 |website=PSG.fr |publisher=Paris Saint-Germain Football Club |quote=Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Javier Pastore has offered his No.10 jersey to the neo-Parisian Neymar Jr.}}{{cite news |date=3 August 2017 |title=Neymar Jr will wear the No.10 |url=https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/neymar-jr-will-wear-the-no-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170914220308/https://en.psg.fr/pro/article/neymar-jr-will-wear-the-no-10 |archive-date=14 September 2017 |access-date=14 September 2017 |website=PSG.fr |publisher=Paris Saint-Germain Football Club |quote=Paris Saint-Germain's new forward Neymar Jr will wear the No.10 jersey.}}

In 2025, Neymar refuted the claims that he left Barcelona to be the best player in the world, highlighting that financially PSG was an attractive destination and that the number of fellow Brazilians at the club attracted him as well, including Thiago Silva, Dani Alves, Marquinhos, and Lucas Moura.{{Cite web |last=published |first=Ryan Dabbs |date=2025-01-17 |title='I didn’t leave Barcelona to be the best in the world at PSG. Messi asked, "Why are you leaving?" I told him it's something personal': Neymar reveals why he made record-breaking 2017 transfer |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/i-didnt-leave-barcelona-to-be-the-best-in-the-world-at-psg-messi-asked-why-are-you-leaving-i-told-him-its-something-personal-neymar-reveals-why-he-made-record-breaking-2017-transfer |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=FourFourTwo |language=en}} The relationship between Neymar and Barcelona fans was tainted following his unexpected transfer to PSG, with some fans burning Barcelona jerseys with Neymar's name on it.{{Cite web |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar threw away his chance to become a Barcelona great! Saudi Arabia transfer the only option after world-record failure at PSG {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=www.goal.com |language=en |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120171638/https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |url-status=live }} In his presentation on 17 August, Neymar said that leaving Barcelona was one of the toughest decisions in his life.{{Cite web |last=Masters |first=James |date=4 August 2017 |title=Neymar: Leaving Barcelona 'one of the toughest' decisions of my life |url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/08/04/football/neymar-paris-saint-germain/index.html |access-date=12 November 2023 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183230/https://www.cnn.com/2017/08/04/football/neymar-paris-saint-germain/index.html |url-status=live }} The presentation was reported to have been watched by 85 million viewers in Brazil.{{Cite news |last=Marsden |first=Rory |title=PSG Owner Says Neymar's Presentation Was Watched by 85 Million People in Brazil |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2732640-psg-owner-says-neymars-presentation-was-watched-by-85-million-people-in-brazil |access-date=13 November 2023 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en |archive-date=13 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231113181817/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2732640-psg-owner-says-neymars-presentation-was-watched-by-85-million-people-in-brazil |url-status=live }} Neymar was unequivocally considered the star player of Ligue 1; Lille's general director Marc Ingla credited the presence of Neymar in Ligue 1 to potentially accelerating it into a powerhouse league in Europe, alongside the Premier League and La Liga.{{Cite web |date=3 August 2017 |title=Neymar can accelerate growth in Ligue 1, says Lille director |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2017/08/03/59834ff9ca4741841f8b460d.html |access-date=14 November 2023 |website=MARCA in English |language=en |archive-date=14 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114172516/https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2017/08/03/59834ff9ca4741841f8b460d.html |url-status=live }}

On 27 August 2017, Barcelona filed a lawsuit against Neymar, demanding he return the contract renewal bonus he received as well as €8.5 million in damages and an additional 10% for the arrears. They claimed they are owed money that Neymar received as part of a renewal bonus when he signed a new contract in 2016. The club also requested PSG to take on the responsibility for the payment of the fees if the player cannot do so himself.{{Cite web|title=FC Barcelona statement {{!}} FC Barcelona|url=https://www.fcbarcelona.com/club/news/2017-2018/fc-barcelona-statement-22-08-2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111225007/https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/news/748300/fc-barcelona-statement|archive-date=11 November 2020|access-date=23 August 2017|website=FC Barcelona}} Neymar's lawyers announced that they would contest the case.{{Cite news|date=23 August 2017|title=PSG's Neymar to contest Barcelona lawsuit over world-record move |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/41014149|url-status=live|access-date=23 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201206194758/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/41014149|archive-date=6 December 2020}}

File:Edgar Ié vs Neymar.jpg in February 2018. He was named Ligue 1 Player of the Year in his debut season.]]

Neymar made his debut for Les Rouge-et-Bleu on 13 August 2017, scoring a goal and assisting another in a 3–0 away victory over Guingamp.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40924357|title=Neymar feels 'more alive than ever' after scoring on PSG debut|date=14 August 2017|access-date=15 August 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816015714/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40924357|archive-date=16 August 2017}} Highlighting the hype around Neymar's arrival in Paris, the match was broadcast in 183 countries.{{Cite web |last=Lopopolo |first=Anthony |date=30 December 2017 |title=Newsmaker of the year: Why 2017 belonged to Neymar |url=https://www.thescore.com/deu_fed/news/1457274 |access-date=14 November 2023 |website=theScore.com |language=en |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183411/https://www.thescore.com/deu_fed/news/1457274 |url-status=live }} After the match, Neymar said, "People think that leaving Barca is to die, but it's the opposite [...] I'm more alive than ever."{{Cite web |title=Remembering Neymar: 5 key moments from his PSG career |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/Legends/2023/08/17/remembering-neymar-5-key-moments-from-his-psg-career |access-date=23 November 2023 |website=Ligue1 COM |language=en |archive-date=23 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123132015/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/Legends/2023/08/17/remembering-neymar-5-key-moments-from-his-psg-career |url-status=live }} In a 6-2 victory, he added two more goals to his tally in the following Ligue 1 fixture against Toulouse.{{cite news|date=20 August 2017 |title=Neymar at the double as PSG hit back to thump Toulouse|publisher=Eurosport|url=http://www.eurosport.com/football/neymar-at-the-double-as-psg-hit-back-to-thump-toulouse_sto6295474/story.shtml|access-date=21 August 2017|archive-date=30 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030222037/https://www.eurosport.com/geoblocking.shtml|url-status=live}} His second goal was described by Sky Sports News as "a sensational individual dribble that saw him take on the entire Toulouse defence, and beating them, before finding the back of the net".{{Cite news |title=Neymar's solo stunner helps PSG beat Toulouse |url=http://www.skysports.com:80/football/news/11800/10998829/neymars-solo-stunner-helps-psg-beat-toulouse |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170824222218/http://www.skysports.com:80/football/news/11800/10998829/neymars-solo-stunner-helps-psg-beat-toulouse |archive-date=2017-08-24 |access-date=2025-06-06 |work=Sky Sports |language=en}}

Forming a prolific attacking trio alongside teenage French prodigy Kylian Mbappé and Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani, Neymar scored one each in PSG's two opening games of the 2017–18 UEFA Champions League group stage, with the team winning 5–0 at Celtic and 3–0 at home over Bayern Munich respectively.{{cite news|date=12 September 2017|title=MBAPPE CREATES CHAMPIONS LEAGUE HISTORY WITH GOAL FOR PSG AGAINST CELTIC |work=Goal |url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/mbappe-creates-champions-league-history-with-goal-for-psg/1fq7caitbaofg1npeqftd4n1e7|url-status=live|access-date=29 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201018235427/https://www.goal.com/en/news/mbappe-creates-champions-league-history-with-goal-for-psg/1fq7caitbaofg1npeqftd4n1e7|archive-date=18 October 2020}}{{cite news|date=30 September 2017|title=PSG 3 Bayern Munich 0: Kylian Mbappe, Edinson Cavani and Neymar star in Champions League heavyweight battle|work=London Evening Standard|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/psg-3-bayern-munich-0-champions-league-kylian-mbappe-edinson-cavani-neymar-star-a3645456.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210108151300/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/psg-3-bayern-munich-0-champions-league-kylian-mbappe-edinson-cavani-neymar-star-a3645456.html|archive-date=8 January 2021}} In the return leg against Celtic at home, Neymar was "at his brilliant best", being the creative force as he scored twice and assisted once in PSG's 7–1 win.{{Cite web |last=Dawson |first=Alan |title=Neymar scored 2 goals and 'toyed' with Celtic in a landslide 7-1 win, then paid homage to Floyd Mayweather after the match |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/neymar-scored-2-goals-and-toyed-with-celtic-in-a-landslide-7-1-win-2017-11 |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}} Neymar finished in third place in the 2017 Ballon d'Or and the FIFA The Best Mens Player awards.{{Cite news |date=2017-10-23 |title=Best Fifa Football Awards 2017: Who picked who? |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/41728853 |access-date=2025-06-06 |work=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} In the same year, he was ranked the third-best footballer in the world by The Guardian; all three rankings were behind Messi and Ronaldo.{{Cite news |last=sport |first=Guardian |title=The 100 best footballers in the world 2017 |url=http://www.theguardian.com/football/ng-interactive/2017/dec/19/the-100-best-footballers-in-the-world-2017-interactive |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=the Guardian |date=19 December 2017 |language=en |archive-date=20 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231220015739/https://www.theguardian.com/football/ng-interactive/2017/dec/19/the-100-best-footballers-in-the-world-2017-interactive |url-status=live }}

On January 17 2018, Neymar displayed one of his greatest career performances, scoring four goals and assisting two in an 8-0 thrashing of Dijon in the league. He became only the second player to ever earn a 10 rating from L'Equipe for a league match performance.{{Cite web |date=2018-03-01 |title=Recapping Neymar's eventful debut season at PSG |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/37492214/neymars-eventful-debut-season-psg-full-highs-lows-plenty-drama |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} During a 3–0 defeat of rivals Marseille on 25 February, Neymar fractured the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot. He travelled to Belo Horizonte and underwent a successful operation on his foot.{{cite web|date=4 March 2018|title=Neymar leaves hospital after 'successful' surgery on injured foot|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11820/11273967/neymar-has-successful-surgery-on-injured-foot|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905211249/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11820/11273967/neymar-has-successful-surgery-on-injured-foot |archive-date=5 September 2018|access-date=4 March 2018 |work=Sky Sports}} Despite failing to make another appearance for PSG while recovering from the injury, Neymar consequently ended his first season in Paris with 28 goals in 30 matches, including six goals and four assists{{Cite web |last=UEFA.com |title=The official website for European football |url=https://www.uefa.com/errors/ |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=UEFA.com |language=en}} in 7 Champions League matches.{{Cite web|date=28 February 2018|title=Neymar: Paris St-Germain's injured forward out for 'six to eight weeks'|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/43205895|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109004500/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/43205895|archive-date=9 November 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=BBC Sport}} Neymar had become the driving force for PSG in similar fashion to Messi's position at Barcelona;{{Cite news |last=Rutzler |first=Peter |date=2023-08-18 |title=Neymar and PSG: Was it all worth it? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4777471/2023/08/15/neymar-psg-saudi-exit/ |access-date=2025-06-05 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} a testament to the success of his debut season, he received the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award.{{cite web |title=Neymar named Ligue 1 Player of Year as PSG dominate |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-named-ligue-1-player-of-the-year-as-psg-dominate/6nc1rt5tr1ug1g0sbb8gclr4w |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191026115818/https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-named-ligue-1-player-of-the-year-as-psg-dominate/6nc1rt5tr1ug1g0sbb8gclr4w |archive-date=26 October 2019 |access-date=13 July 2018 |work=Goal}}

Neymar was rushed back to play for Brazil at the 2018 World Cup in Russia following the injury in February, but his playing style was not quite the same as he appeared to be avoiding physical contact entirely rather than simply trying to draw fouls.

On 12 August 2018, Neymar scored PSG's opening league goal of the 2018–19 season in a 3–0 win over Caen at Parc des Princes.{{cite news|date=13 August 2018|title=Neymar: Paris St-Germain striker scores as his side open Ligue 1 season with 3–0 win over Caen|work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45163002|url-status=live|access-date=13 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020224533/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45163002|archive-date=20 October 2020}} Neymar scored from a penalty in his next game as PSG won 3–1 against Guingamp in Ligue 1.{{cite news|date=18 August 2018|title=Mbappe scores twice in Lique 1 return to seal PSG fight-back|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45228476|url-status=live|access-date=19 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191202235645/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45228476|archive-date=2 December 2019}} In the following league game, the front three of Neymar, Mbappé and Cavani all scored in a 3–1 win over Angers at home, with Neymar scoring from Mbappé's cut back and setting up Cavani to score the opener.{{cite news|date=25 August 2018|title=Cavani, Mbappe & Neymar all score as PSG maintain 100% start |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45310948|url-status=live|access-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211025811/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45310948|archive-date=11 December 2020}}File:Neymar 2018.jpg in 2018–19|240x240px]]In an article from 2 October, Nico Morales of The Athletic observed that at PSG, Neymar's occupancy in central areas helped accentuate his ability as a creator, becoming a better player.{{Cite news |last=Morales |first=Nico |date=2018-10-02 |title=The Neymar conundrum: At PSG he has become more of a threat on offense and more of a liability on defense |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/563805/2018/10/02/the-neymar-conundrum-at-psg-he-has-become-more-of-a-threat-on-offense-and-more-of-a-liability-on-defense/ |access-date=2025-06-04 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Morales further said that instead of being a threat solely in wide areas like he was during his time at Barcelona, Neymar was now able to showcase his "world-class" ability as a playmaker. The following day, 3 October, Neymar scored a hattrick in a 6–1 win over Red Star Belgrade in a Champions League group stage fixture.{{cite news|date=3 October 2018|title=Neymar scores a hattrick as PSG beat Red Star Belgrade 6–1|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45737151|url-status=live|access-date=30 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626184440/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45737151|archive-date=26 June 2019}} On 28 November, Neymar showcased an impressive performance, in which he scored the winner, in PSG's 2-1 win against Liverpool.{{Cite news |last=Ronay |first=Barney |date=2018-11-29 |title=Neymar, the great individualist of the age, gives less to provide more for PSG |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/nov/29/neymar-paris-saint-germain-liverpool-champions-league |access-date=2025-06-06 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}} Barney Ronay of The Guardian described it as his "most effective high-profile performance since his Barcelona days".

Neymar suffered a foot injury in late January 2019 that kept him out of his side's Champions League round of 16 tie against Manchester United.{{cite news|last=Mather|first=Victor|date=28 January 2019|title=P.S.G.'s Neymar Joins Growing Champions League Injury List|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/28/sports/neymar-champions-league-psg.html|url-status=live|access-date=8 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108010844/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/28/sports/neymar-champions-league-psg.html|archive-date=8 November 2020}} After United eliminated PSG, Neymar went on Instagram insulting video review officials for awarding a stoppage-time penalty to United; UEFA banned Neymar for three matches for the insult.

On 27 April, Neymar scored in the 2019 Coupe de France Final against Rennes, but Rennes made a comeback and won on penalties. After the match, Neymar was caught on video appearing to punch a spectator in the face.{{cite web|last1=Bairner|first1=Robin|date=1 May 2019|title=Will Neymar be banned for fan punch? PSG star's possible sanctions|url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/will-neymar-be-banned-for-fan-punch-psg-stars-possible/1etvzvcw0pp2f1b3nhc8z124zz|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190504075248/https://www.goal.com/en/news/will-neymar-be-banned-for-fan-punch-psg-stars-possible/1etvzvcw0pp2f1b3nhc8z124zz|archive-date=4 May 2019|access-date=4 May 2019|website=goal.com}} The spectator had been filming and insulting PSG players. PSG said they supported Neymar "100 percent" over the incident.{{cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Jerome |title=Neymar appears to aim punch at fan goading him after defeat|url=https://www.apnews.com/f36fd5d49a0e4e6f83f3f5fb3ee3f7f5|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219103441/https://apnews.com/f36fd5d49a0e4e6f83f3f5fb3ee3f7f5|archive-date=19 December 2020|access-date=4 May 2019|website=Associated Press|date=28 April 2019}} Neymar admitted he was wrong, but argued that neither he nor anyone else could have stayed indifferent. PSG coach Thomas Tuchel responded: "It's not easy to climb the stairs after a defeat. If we lose, we must show respect. You can't come into conflict with a spectator."

In July 2019, Neymar was absent from training with PSG, with the club talking disciplinary action.{{cite news |date=8 July 2019 |title=Neymar: Brazil forward fails to attend PSG pre-season training |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/48915199 |url-status=live |access-date=8 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129025815/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/48915199 |archive-date=29 November 2020}} Neymar wanted to leave PSG as he felt referees never protected him, there was jealousy towards him from some dressing room team-mates, fans did not appreciate his talent showcased in PSG and sections of the French media were against him.{{Cite web |title=Neymar: Why did he choose to remain at Paris Saint-Germain? |url=https://www.skysports.com/app/transfer/news/11820/11801047/neymar-why-did-he-choose-to-remain-at-paris-saint-germain |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=SkySports |language=en |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120180409/https://www.skysports.com/app/transfer/news/11820/11801047/neymar-why-did-he-choose-to-remain-at-paris-saint-germain |url-status=live }}

According to Sky Sports News, Neymar was prepared to pay €20m of his own money to PSG in five instalments to facilitate a move to Barcelona. On 27 August 2019, both clubs met to discuss Neymar's situation, but according to PSG sporting director Leonardo, Barcelona's only written offer came during the meeting, which was not enough and PSG refused. Three days later, on 30 August, an offer was made in writing from Neymar to PSG general manager Jean-Claude Blanc. Neymar's offer was dismissed by PSG because of French football federation regulations, and he ultimately agreed to stay at PSG after the talks to return to Barcelona broke down.{{cite news |date=1 September 2019 |title=Neymar: Paris Saint-Germain forward agrees to stay after Barcelona talks break down |work=Sky Sports |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11820/11799320/neymar-paris-saint-germain-forward-agrees-to-stay-after-barcelona-talks-break-down |url-status=live |access-date=6 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107233653/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11820/11799320/neymar-paris-saint-germain-forward-agrees-to-stay-after-barcelona-talks-break-down |archive-date=7 November 2020}} Sky Sports News also reported that Real Madrid were interested in signing Neymar throughout the transfer window.

Neymar made his first appearance for PSG in the 2019–20 season on 14 September, in a 1–0 victory over Strasbourg in Ligue 1. He scored the winning goal in injury time in the second half from a bicycle kick.{{cite news|date=14 September 2019 |title=Last-gasp win!|publisher=Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|url=https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/last-gasp-win|url-status=live|access-date=15 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200710000245/https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/last-gasp-win|archive-date=10 July 2020}} One week later, he again scored a late winner, as PSG defeated Lyon 1–0 at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais.{{cite web|date=23 September 2019 |title=Lyon 0–1 Paris St-Germain|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/49783196|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814174359/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/49783196|archive-date=14 August 2020|access-date=25 July 2020| website=BBC}} Neymar suffered a hamstring injury in October while on international duty with Brazil,{{cite web|date=14 October 2019|title=Neymar out 4 Weeks with Hamstring Injury; Expected to Miss PSG's Next 6 Matches|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2857855-neymar-out-4-weeks-with-hamstring-injury-expected-to-miss-psgs-next-6-matches|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725172027/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2857855-neymar-out-4-weeks-with-hamstring-injury-expected-to-miss-psgs-next-6-matches|archive-date=25 July 2020|access-date=25 July 2020|publisher=Bleacher Report}} and returned to play for PSG during their Champions League group match against Real Madrid on 26 November in a 2–2 draw.File:Neymar vs Lille.jpg

Neymar won his third league title after PSG were awarded Ligue 1 as the season finished early due to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|date=30 April 2020 |title=Ligue 1: Paris St-Germain awarded French title as season finished early|publisher=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/52484926|url-status=live|access-date=30 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107084148/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/52484926|archive-date=7 November 2020}} In his first 50 matches in Ligue 1, Neymar scored 46 goals, being the first player to do so since Marseille's Gunnar Andersson in the early 1950s.{{Cite web |title=Ligue 1's all-time top 5 Brazilians |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/Opinion/2020/03/28/neymar-ronaldinho-juninho-rai-vitorino-hilton-ligue-1-s-top-5-brazilians |access-date=14 November 2023 |website=Ligue1 |language=en |archive-date=14 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114175247/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/Opinion/2020/03/28/neymar-ronaldinho-juninho-rai-vitorino-hilton-ligue-1-s-top-5-brazilians |url-status=live }} On 24 July 2020, in PSG's first professional game back after the pandemic, Neymar scored his side's lone goal in a 1–0 win over Saint-Étienne in the Coupe de France Final, winning his second Coupe de France title with the club. On 31 July, PSG won the 2020 Coupe de la Ligue Final 6–5 on penalties over Lyon, following a 0–0 draw after extra time, which saw the side complete a domestic treble, with Neymar netting one of the penalties in the shoot-out.{{cite news|date=31 July 2020|title=Paris St-Germain beat Lyon in French League Cup final for another treble|publisher=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53617357|url-status=live|access-date=31 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116164005/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53617357|archive-date=16 November 2020}}

In the Champions League quarter-final against Atalanta on 12 August, Neymar assisted the equalising goal in injury time in an eventual 2–1 win.{{cite web|date=13 August 2020|title=Atalanta dealt cruelest of exits by PSG late show|work=AS.com |url=https://en.as.com/en/2020/08/12/football/1597255022_750607.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208204706/https://en.as.com/en/2020/08/12/football/1597255022_750607.html|archive-date=8 December 2020|access-date=24 August 2020}} As a result of his performance in the match, the BBC published an article the following day titled 'Neymar: Is he now the best player in the world?'.{{Cite news |date=13 August 2020 |title=Neymar: Is he now the best player in the world? |language=en-GB |work=BBC Newsround |url=https://www.bbc.com/newsround/53736391 |access-date=15 November 2023 |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183253/https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/53736391 |url-status=live }} In the semi-final against RB Leipzig, he assisted one goal in a 3–0 victory, which saw PSG reach the Champions League final for the first time in their history.{{cite web|date=18 August 2020|title=RB Leipzig 0-3 Paris St-Germain: PSG reach first Champions League final|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53759778|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904130058/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53759778|archive-date=4 September 2020|access-date=24 August 2020|publisher=BBC Sport}} Marca were also praiseful of Neymar, considering him the most decisive and the best player in the world following his "masterclass" performances leading up to the final.{{Cite web |date=18 August 2020 |title=Neymar is the most decisive player in the world |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2020/08/19/5f3c54a2268e3e9f428b4584.html |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=MARCA in English |language=en |archive-date=19 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819041802/https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2020/08/19/5f3c54a2268e3e9f428b4584.html |url-status=live }} French journalist Julien Laurens deemed Neymar as being “the focal point of the team [...] he’s dominating the game, making all differences to create almost all opportunities."{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}} Eurosport France journalist Vincent Bregevin was of the same praise, claiming that Neymar's availability as a result of not being injured was imperative to PSG's performances en route to the final.

PSG lost 1–0 to Bayern Munich on 23 August.{{cite web|date=23 August 2020|title=Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain to win Champions League|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=573698|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107084610/https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=573698|archive-date=7 November 2020|access-date=23 August 2020 |publisher=ESPN}} With his focal ambition of being the talisman to PSG winning its first ever Champions League title, Neymar was distraught and had to be consoled by the club's sporting director Leonardo.{{Cite web |date=23 August 2020 |title=Neymar left in tears after PSG suffer Champions League final heartbreak {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-left-in-tears-after-psg-suffer-champions-league-final-heartbreak/1mn3d7984xeps13osn5vpt6k2j |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB |archive-date=15 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115100501/https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-left-in-tears-after-psg-suffer-champions-league-final-heartbreak/1mn3d7984xeps13osn5vpt6k2j |url-status=live }} With three goals and four assists in seven Champions League matches,{{Cite web |last=UEFA.com |title=The official website for European football |url=https://www.uefa.com/errors/ |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=UEFA.com |language=en}} Neymar was amongst the nominees for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award, being the highest ranked PSG player at fourth place.{{Cite web |last=UEFA.com |date=2020-10-01 |title=Robert Lewandowski wins UEFA Men's Player of the Year award |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0262-1081df1ad49c-10605b589d53-1000--lewandowski-named-player-of-the-year/ |access-date=2025-02-06 |website=UEFA |language=en}} Eurosport debated whether Neymar outshone Robert Lewandowski as the best player of 2020.{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}}

Neymar missed out on the first match of the 2020–21 season because he had tested positive for COVID-19 a week earlier;{{Cite web|date=8 September 2020|title=Lens 'not favourites' against depleted PSG |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/NEWS/2020/09/08/lens-not-favourites-psg-mbappe-neymar-covid|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200910182803/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/NEWS/2020/09/08/lens-not-favourites-psg-mbappe-neymar-covid|archive-date=10 September 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=Ligue 1}} PSG went on to lose the game against Lens 1–0.{{Cite web |date=10 September 2020|title=Lens 1-0 Paris Saint-Germain: Champions League finalists beaten by Ligue 1 newcomers |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/rc-lens-vs-psg/report/431369|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200912212757/https://www.skysports.com/football/rc-lens-vs-psg/report/431369 |archive-date=12 September 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=Sky Sports}} However, he returned to training before the match against Marseille on 13 September.{{Cite web|date=12 September 2020|title=PSG: Neymar back as Tuchel complains about Le Classique |url=https://en.as.com/en/2020/09/12/football/1599939171_648394.html |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028214423/https://en.as.com/en/2020/09/12/football/1599939171_648394.html|archive-date=28 October 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=AS.com}} PSG lost Le Classique for the first time since 2011 as OM were victorious 1–0 in a match that had 14 yellow cards and five red cards handed out by the referee, including one of each to Neymar.{{Cite magazine|date=14 September 2020|title=Neymar Among 5 Sent Off in PSG-Marseille, Alleges Racial Abuse|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2020/09/14/psg-marseille-fight-video-neymar-red-card-racist-abuse|access-date=18 September 2020|magazine=Sports Illustrated|archive-date=24 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024205435/https://www.si.com/soccer/2020/09/14/psg-marseille-fight-video-neymar-red-car|url-status=live}}

Neymar scored his first two goals of the season in a 6–1 win against Angers on 2 October.{{Cite web|last=da Silva|first=Michael|date=2 October 2020|title=NEYMAR GRABS TWO AS PSG ROUT ANGERS|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/ligue-1/2020-2021/psg-v-angers-ligue-1-live-updates_sto7919834/story.shtml|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026191438/https://www.eurosport.com/football/ligue-1/2020-2021/psg-v-angers-ligue-1-live-updates_sto7919834/story.shtml|archive-date=26 October 2020|access-date=3 October 2020|website=Eurosport}} He entered the list of the top ten goal scorers in PSG history by doing so, scoring his 72nd for the club, which put him level with Raí.{{Cite web|date=3 October 2020|title=Neymar rentre dans le top 10 des meilleurs buteurs de l'histoire du PSG|trans-title=Neymar enters the top 10 of the best scorers in the history of PSG|url=http://www.parisfans.fr/club/neymar-rentre-dans-le-top-10-des-meilleurs-buteurs-de-lhistoire-du-psg-491779.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024064151/http://www.parisfans.fr/club/neymar-rentre-dans-le-top-10-des-meilleurs-buteurs-de-lhistoire-du-psg-491779.html|archive-date=24 October 2020|access-date=3 October 2020|website=Paris Fans|language=fr}} On 28 October, Neymar suffered an adductor injury in a match against İstanbul Başakşehir, leaving the pitch after 26 minutes of play.{{Cite web|date=28 October 2020|title=PSG's Neymar in 'discomfort' after adductor injury and will undergo further tests|url=https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/psgs-neymar-in-discomfort-after-adductor-injury-and-will-undergo-further-tests/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101043118/https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/psgs-neymar-in-discomfort-after-adductor-injury-and-will-undergo-further-tests/|archive-date=1 November 2020|access-date=29 October 2020|website=CBS Sports}} He made his return to action as a substitute in a 3–2 loss against Monaco on 20 November,{{Cite web|date=20 November 2020|title=Monaco Beat PSG|url=https://bleacherreport.com/game/as-monaco-fc-vs-paris-saint-germain-fc-2020-11-22|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211190350/https://bleacherreport.com/game/as-monaco-fc-vs-paris-saint-germain-fc-2020-11-22|archive-date=11 December 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=Bleacher Report}} and scored his first goal after recovering from his injury in a 1–0 win against RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League on 24 November.{{Cite web|date=24 November 2020|title=PSG 1-0 RB LEIPZIG: NEYMAR FIRES PSG TO CRUCIAL WIN AGAINST RB LEIPZIG|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/champions-league/2020-2021/psg-v-rb-leipzig-live-champions-league-updates_sto8005067/story.shtml|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203143030/https://www.eurosport.com/football/champions-league/2020-2021/psg-v-rb-leipzig-live-champions-league-updates_sto8005067/story.shtml|archive-date=3 December 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=Eurosport}}

On 28 November, Neymar scored his 50th goal in Ligue 1, converting a penalty in PSG's 2–2 draw against Bordeaux. This made him the fastest player in the club's history to reach this, doing so in only 58 matches.{{cite web|date=28 November 2020|title=Neymar reaches 50 Ligue 1 goals in record time in 21st century|url=https://www.beinsports.com/en/football/news/neymar-reaches-50-ligue-1-goals-in-record-t-1/1591744|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128220753/http://www.beinsports.com/en/football/news/neymar-reaches-50-ligue-1-goals-in-record-t-1/1591744 |archive-date=28 November 2020|access-date=28 November 2020|website=beIN Sports}} Four days later, on 2 December, he scored two goals in a 3–1 Champions League victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford.{{Cite news|date=2 December 2020|title=Man Utd beaten at home by PSG|work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55135808|url-status=live|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201206081114/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55135808|archive-date=6 December 2020}} In PSG's final group match, Neymar scored his third career Champions League hat-trick against İstanbul Başakşehir, as his side won 5–1 and qualified for the knockout stage as group winners.{{Cite web|date=9 December 2020|title=Hat-trick: Neymar Jr's gala performance on the Champions League|url=https://www.neymarjr.com/en/football/hat-trick-neymar-jr-gala-performance-on-the-champions-league|access-date=10 December 2020|website=www.neymarjr.com|archive-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114150953/https://www.neymarjr.com/en/football/hat-trick-neymar-jr-gala-performance-on-the-champions-league|url-status=live}} He became the first player in European Cup and Champions League history to score 20 goals for two different clubs, scoring 21 goals for Barcelona in 40 games, and 20 for PSG in 25 games.{{Cite web|last=Zavala|first=Steve|date=10 December 2020|title=Neymar is the First Player Ever to Score 20 Champions League Goals for Two Different Teams|url=https://psgtalk.com/2020/12/neymar-is-the-first-player-ever-to-score-20-champions-league-goals-for-two-different-teams/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210101132/https://psgtalk.com/2020/12/neymar-is-the-first-player-ever-to-score-20-champions-league-goals-for-two-different-teams/|archive-date=10 December 2020|access-date=10 December 2020|website=PSG Talk|language=en}} In a 1–0 loss to Lyon on 13 December, Neymar suffered an ankle injury after a tackle from Thiago Mendes, and had to be stretchered off the field.{{Cite web|date=14 December 2020|title=Neymar raises injury alarm bells after being stretchered off against Lyon |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/neymar-raises-injury-alarm-bells-after-being-stretchered-off/1bniqo4br68i01hvp8sunwz5x1|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201220111429/https://www.goal.com/en/news/neymar-raises-injury-alarm-bells-after-being-stretchered-off/1bniqo4br68i01hvp8sunwz5x1 |archive-date=20 December 2020|access-date=14 December 2020|website=www.goal.com}} He avoided a fracture, but was ruled out of action for three weeks with a sprain.{{Cite web|last=Barker|first=Gabby|date=15 December 2020|title=Neymar's fracture is ruled out, which points to three weeks KO|url=https://sportsfinding.com/neymars-fracture-is-ruled-out-which-points-to-three-weeks-ko/73944/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114151234/https://sportsfinding.com/neymars-fracture-is-ruled-out-which-points-to-three-weeks-ko/73944/|archive-date=14 January 2021|access-date=15 December 2020|website=Sports Finding|language=en-GB}} His return proved to be exactly one month after his injury, on 13 January 2021, in a 2–1 win over rivals Marseille in the Trophée des Champions, with Neymar scoring the winning goal from a penalty.{{Cite web |last=Hoskin |first=Rob |date=13 January 2021|title=Neymar mocks Alvaro Gonzalez in celebration after terrible tackle during PSG vs Marseille |url=https://www.givemesport.com/1638008-neymar-mocks-alvaro-gonzalez-in-celebration-after-terrible-tackle-during-psg-vs-marseille|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115135649/https://www.givemesport.com/1638008-neymar-mocks-alvaro-gonzalez-in-celebration-after-terrible-tackle-during-psg-vs-marseille|archive-date=15 January 2021|access-date=14 January 2021|website=givemesport.com}} He sustained a left adductor injury in a 1–0 cup win over Caen on 10 February, ruling him out for four weeks.{{cite web |url=https://dknation.draftkings.com/2021/2/15/22278279/neymar-injury-update-uefa-champions-league-paris-vs-barcelona-round-of-16-match-status-backup |title=Neymar to miss Champions League Round of 16 first leg match vs. Barcelona|publisher=Draft Kings|date=15 February 2021|access-date=17 February 2021 |archive-date=16 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216215419/https://dknation.draftkings.com/2021/2/15/22278279/neymar-injury-update-uefa-champions-league-paris-vs-barcelona-round-of-16-match-status-backup|url-status=live}} On 21 March, he was back in action, coming on as a substitute in a 4–2 league win against Lyon.{{Cite web|title=Football: Neymar makes PSG return from injury against Lyon|url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/football-neymar-makes-psg-return-from-injury-against-lyon-14453924|access-date=30 March 2021|website=CNA|language=en|archive-date=20 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210320171003/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/football-neymar-makes-psg-return-from-injury-against-lyon-14453924|url-status=dead}}

In the 2020–21 UEFA Champions League, Neymar was absent for PSG's defeat of Barcelona, but he was present in both matches of the quarter-finals against Bayern Munich. PSG beat defending champions Bayern Munich 3-2 in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal; Neymar had two assists.{{Cite web |title=PSG 3-2 Bayern (7 Apr, 2021) Game Analysis - ESPN (UK) |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/report/_/gameId/596891 |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=ESPN |language=en}} PSG booked their spot in the semi-finals on away goals after losing the second leg 1-0.{{Cite web |date=2021-04-14 |title=Neymar explains celebrating in Kimmich's face after PSG beat Bayern Munich in Champions League {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/neymar-explains-celebrating-in-the-face-of-kimmich-after-psg-beat-bayern-munich-in-champions-league/1isvx4yjgmdwhzoky5ixgwzna |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} Ahead of the first leg against Manchester City, Man City manager Pep Guardiola praised Neymar: “He's a joy to watch. As a spectator, I enjoy it a lot every time [...] And I’m pretty sure if he’d stayed in Barcelona, Barcelona would've won two or three Champions Leagues more."{{Cite web |last=Critchley |first=Mark |date=27 April 2021 |title=PSG vs Man City: Neymar would have won three more Champions Leagues with Barcelona, says Pep Guardiola |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/psg-man-city-neymar-barcelona-b1838282.html |website=The Independent}} PSG failed to reach a second consecutive Champions League final as they were knocked out by Man City.

On 8 May, Neymar extended his contract with PSG until 2025.{{Cite web|date=8 May 2021|title=PSG's Neymar signs contract extension|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37617017/psg-neymar-signs-contract-extension-2025|access-date=8 May 2021|website=ESPN|language=en|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508171015/https://www.espn.com/soccer/soccer-transfers/story/4379755/psgs-neymar-signs-contract-extension-to-2025|url-status=live}} Upon this extension, he said he wanted to achieve PSG's biggest dream, to win the Champions League.{{Cite news |last=sport |first=Guardian |date=2021-05-08 |title=‘I am happy and proud’: Neymar commits future to PSG until 2025 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/may/08/neymar-commits-future-to-psg-signs-contract-until-2025 |access-date=2025-06-05 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}} Further comments included, “My goal when I came [here] was to help get Paris Saint-Germain to the top, among the very best, and we are getting close”.

Neymar was nominated for the 2021 Ballon d'Or.{{Cite web |title=Neymar Jr. Official |url=https://www.neymarjr.com/ |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=Neymar Jr. |language=en}} This was his ninth nomination—a record for a Brazilian player.

File:Mbappe Messi Neymar.jpg and Lionel Messi against Marseille during Le Classique in October 2021]]

On 10 August 2021, Neymar's former Barcelona teammate Messi signed for PSG.{{Cite web|title=Lionel Messi reunited with Neymar at PSG after Barcelona exit |url=https://olympics.com/en/news/football-lionel-messi-rejoins-neymar-at-psg-after-barcelona-exit|access-date=15 September 2021 |website=Olympics.com|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915025357/https://olympics.com/en/news/football-lionel-messi-rejoins-neymar-at-psg-after-barcelona-exit|url-status=live}} On 29 August, Neymar made his first appearance of the season, being a starter in a 2–0 win over Reims. Messi replaced Neymar at 66th minute of the match, making his debut for the French club.{{Cite web |last=Percival |first=Charlotte Harpur and Holly|date=29 August 2021|title=Lionel Messi makes PSG debut as sub for Neymar in Ligue 1 game against Reims|url=https://theathletic.com/news/lionel-messi-makes-psg-debut-as-sub-for-neymar-in-ligue-1-game-against-reims/JjuptraSwJAU|access-date=15 September 2021|website=The Athletic|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915025353/https://theathletic.com/news/lionel-messi-makes-psg-debut-as-sub-for-neymar-in-ligue-1-game-against-reims/JjuptraSwJAU|url-status=live}} Neymar scored his first goal of the 2021–22 season on 19 September, converting a penalty in a 2–1 win over Lyon.{{Cite web|title=Player Ratings {{!}} PSG 2-1 Lyon, Neymar's brilliance and a questionable penalty decision give PSG a barely deserved win|url=https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2021/player-ratings-psg-2-1-lyon-neymars-brilliance-and-a-questionable-penalty-decision-give-psg-a-barely-deserved-win/|access-date=20 September 2021|website=Get French Football News|date=19 September 2021|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920223408/https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2021/player-ratings-psg-2-1-lyon-neymars-brilliance-and-a-questionable-penalty-decision-give-psg-a-barely-deserved-win/|url-status=live}} He scored his 400th career goal on 6 November against Bordeaux, where he scored a brace and helped the team to win the match 3–2.{{Cite web|title=Neymar nets 400th career goal in Paris Saint-Germain win over Bordeaux|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/609408|access-date=8 November 2021|website=ESPN|archive-date=8 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108072441/https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/609408|url-status=live}}

On 28 November, Neymar suffered an ankle injury in a 3–1 win over Saint-Étienne. He was taken off on a stretcher at the 85th minute of the match.{{Cite web |url=https://theathletic.com/news/neymar-taken-off-on-stretcher-with-ankle-injury-as-psg-win-3-1-vs-saint-etienne/TmJN686xTtTL/ |title=Neymar taken off on stretcher with ankle injury as PSG win 3-1 vs Saint-Etienne |date=28 November 2021 |access-date=20 February 2022 |website=The Athletic |archive-date=20 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220181538/https://theathletic.com/news/neymar-taken-off-on-stretcher-with-ankle-injury-as-psg-win-3-1-vs-saint-etienne/TmJN686xTtTL/ |url-status=live }} His return from injury came on 15 February 2022 in a Champions League match against Real Madrid, where he came on as a substitute and assisted Mbappé's injury-time goal to win the match 1–0.{{Cite web |url=https://www.sportbible.com/football/neymar-absolutely-ran-the-show-in-20minute-cameo-vs-real-madrid-20220216 |last1=Lawless |first1=Josh |title=Neymar Absolutely Ran The Show In 20-Minute Cameo Vs Real Madrid |date=16 February 2022 |access-date=20 February 2022 |website=SPORTbible |archive-date=20 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220181539/https://www.sportbible.com/football/neymar-absolutely-ran-the-show-in-20minute-cameo-vs-real-madrid-20220216 |url-status=live }} Four days later, he made his return to league play and his first start in 2022 in a match against Nantes; he scored a goal and missed a penalty in a 3–1 loss at the Stade de la Beaujoire.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thescore.com/fra_fed/news/2301894/amp |title=PSG suffer 2nd league defeat after 1st-half implosion at Nantes |access-date=20 February 2022 |date=19 February 2022 |publisher=Score Media and Gaming |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030222032/https://www.thescore.com/fra_fed/news/2301894/amp |url-status=live }} On 13 March, following their Champions League elimination against Real Madrid in the round of 16, Neymar and his team-mate Messi were booed by some of the PSG fans at the Parc des Princes in the league match against Bordeaux.{{Cite web |date=16 March 2022 |title=PSG fans' frustrations run a lot deeper than Messi and the Champions League |url=https://www.espn.in/football/paris-saint-germain--frapsg/story/4617314/why-psg-fans-booed-messimbappe-and-co-their-frustration-runs-much-deeper-than-the-champions-league |access-date=12 June 2022 |website=ESPN |archive-date=12 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612054037/https://www.espn.in/football/paris-saint-germain--frapsg/story/4617314/why-psg-fans-booed-messimbappe-and-co-their-frustration-runs-much-deeper-than-the-champions-league |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=PSG fans booing Messi 'unbelievable' - Pochettino |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/psg-fans-booing-messi-unbelievable-pochettino/bltd15fedeeb21fe971 |access-date=12 June 2022 |website=www.goal.com |archive-date=12 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612054038/https://www.goal.com/en/news/psg-fans-booing-messi-unbelievable-pochettino/bltd15fedeeb21fe971 |url-status=live }} On 21 May, he scored his 100th goal with PSG in a 5–0 win over Metz.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61537573 |title=Paris Saint Germain 5–0 Metz |website=BBC Sport |date=21 May 2022 |access-date=21 May 2022 |archive-date=15 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220815180927/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61537573 |url-status=live }} Neymar helped PSG win their record-tying 10th national championship, finishing the season with 13 goals and 8 assists across all competitions, registering the fewest goals scored since arriving in Europe in 2013, in a season marked by various injuries and collective irregularity.{{cite web|url=https://cultura.uol.com.br/esporte/noticias/2022/05/23/3461_neymar-encerra-temporada-202122-com-menor-numero-de-gols-since-que-chegou-na-europa.html|title=Neymar ends the 2021/22 season with the fewest goals since arriving in Europe|date=23 May 2022|access-date=18 August 2022|work=UOL}}{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

File:Messi Neymar Mbappé PSG 2022.jpg

Following a disappointing form in the previous season and with the club's change in transfer policy, Neymar was linked with a potential departure from the club, but the lack of potential suitors broke down a potential move, despite PSG's Football Advisor Luís Campos dismissing those rumours – stating that Neymar was part of the club's project.{{cite web|last1=Banerjee|first1=Apratim|date=2 September 2022|title=PSG wanted to sell Neymar and sign Barcelona superstar to play alongside Kylian Mbappe this summer: Reports|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/news-psg-wanted-sell-neymar-sign-barcelona-superstar-play-alongside-kylian-mbappe-summer-reports|access-date=16 November 2022|website=Sportskeeda|archive-date=16 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221116104532/https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/news-psg-wanted-sell-neymar-sign-barcelona-superstar-play-alongside-kylian-mbappe-summer-reports|url-status=live}}

Neymar started the season in tremendous quality, scoring a goal and providing a hat-trick of assists in a 5–0 win against Clermont on 6 August.{{Cite web |title=Neymar spotted at poker tournament & McDonald's just HOURS after PSG's loss to Bayern & Kylian Mbappe's 'eat & sleep well' warning |url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/neymar-poker-tournament-mcdonalds-after-psg-loss-bayern-kylian-mbappe-warning/blt9fc1c64053a46c03 |access-date=19 February 2023 |website=www.goal.com |archive-date=19 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230219122607/https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/neymar-poker-tournament-mcdonalds-after-psg-loss-bayern-kylian-mbappe-warning/blt9fc1c64053a46c03 |url-status=live }} As part of his prolific attacking trio alongside Kylian Mbappé and Messi, on 21 August, all three scored and assisted with Neymar netting twice and registering three more assists in PSG's 7–1 away win over Lille.{{Cite web |last=Grez |first=Matias |date=22 August 2022 |title=Kylian Mbappé scores a hat-trick – including 8-second goal from kick-off – as Paris Saint-Germain puts seven goals past Lille |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2022/08/22/football/kylian-mbappe-hat-trick-psg-hammers-lille-spt-intl/index.html |access-date=27 September 2022 |website=CNN |archive-date=29 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220929134307/https://edition.cnn.com/2022/08/22/football/kylian-mbappe-hat-trick-psg-hammers-lille-spt-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Molson |first=Johan |date=22 August 2022 |title=VIDÉO - Michel Rio, le Breton plus rapide que Kylian Mbappé |url=https://www.francebleu.fr/infos/insolite/video-michel-rio-le-breton-plus-rapide-que-kylian-mbappe-1661185886 |access-date=23 August 2022 |website=France Bleu |language=fr |archive-date=22 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220822163406/https://www.francebleu.fr/infos/insolite/video-michel-rio-le-breton-plus-rapide-que-kylian-mbappe-1661185886 |url-status=live }} After registering 13 goal contributions in his first five league games, Neymar was named Ligue 1's Player of the Month in August.{{cite web |date=22 September 2022 |title=Neymar Jr, joueur du mois d'août de la Ligue 1 Uber Eats ! |trans-title=Neymar Jr, player of the month for August in Ligue 1 Uber Eats! |url=https://www.unfp.org/2022/09/neymar-jr-joueur-du-mois-daout-de-la-ligue-1-uber-eats/ |access-date=24 September 2022 |publisher=National Union of Professional Footballers |language=fr |archive-date=5 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005124224/https://www.unfp.org/2022/09/neymar-jr-joueur-du-mois-daout-de-la-ligue-1-uber-eats/ |url-status=live }} By early October 2022, Neymar was considered one of the stand-out players in Europe and back to his peak form, having scored 11 goals and providing 9 assists in just 13 games.{{Cite web |date=6 October 2022 |title='I don't think there's a new Neymar' - PSG star insists he's no different after brilliant start to the season {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/i-don-t-think-there-s-a-new-neymar-psg-star-insists-he-s-no-different-after-brilliant-start-to-the-season/blt2c5bcd693e0b3995 |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120102321/https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/i-don-t-think-there-s-a-new-neymar-psg-star-insists-he-s-no-different-after-brilliant-start-to-the-season/blt2c5bcd693e0b3995 |url-status=live }} Manager Christophe Galtier praised Neymar for playing his best ever football in PSG,{{Cite web |title=PSG-Auxerre preview: 'best ever Neymar' to play? |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/News/2022/11/10/psg-auxerre-preview-best-ever-neymar-to-play |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120102320/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/News/2022/11/10/psg-auxerre-preview-best-ever-neymar-to-play |archive-date=20 November 2023 |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=Ligue1 COM |language=en}} and his performances led him to be touted to win the 2023 Ballon d'Or, alongside top performers Erling Haaland and Mbappé.{{Cite web |date=19 December 2022 |title=Who will win Ballon d'Or 2023? Messi, Haaland, Lewandowski and other star players vying for the award {{!}} Sporting News India |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/in/football/news/ballon-dor-2023-messi-haaland-players-award/vhfpxlxbjoy61eqy9enmng7d |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=www.sportingnews.com |language=en-in |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120102320/https://www.sportingnews.com/in/football/news/ballon-dor-2023-messi-haaland-players-award/vhfpxlxbjoy61eqy9enmng7d |url-status=live }}

Unfortunately, injuries affected Neymar's season again. On 6 March 2023, PSG announced that Neymar would undergo surgery in Doha and would be ruled out for the remainder of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64868512|title=Paris St-Germain striker to have ankle surgery and set to be out for the rest of the season|website=BBC|date=6 March 2023|accessdate=6 March 2023|archive-date=6 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306173247/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64868512|url-status=live}} This led to Neymar missing PSG's second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayern Munich, in which PSG ended up being eliminated. After reports that Messi would leave the club following the expiration of his contract, a group of PSG supporters gathered outside the club's headquarters, protesting against the club's direction and insulting various figures of the club, including Neymar. Another group of individuals went to Neymar's house, demanding him to leave the club.{{cite web|url=https://en.as.com/soccer/psg-fans-want-messi-out-v/|title=PSG fans want Messi out|date=3 May 2023|access-date=4 June 2023|first=Jennifer|last=Bubel|website=Diario AS|archive-date=4 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604183056/https://en.as.com/soccer/psg-fans-want-messi-out-v/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Rutzler |first=Peter |date=10 May 2023 |title=Even by PSG's standards, the past week has been a chaotic one |url=https://theathletic.com/4501871/2023/05/10/psg-messi-chaotic-week/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=The Athletic |archive-date=4 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604190255/https://theathletic.com/4501871/2023/05/10/psg-messi-chaotic-week/ |url-status=live }}

At the end of the 2022–23 season, PSG began a squad overhaul and after not renewing the contracts of Sergio Ramos and Messi, following the arrival of Luis Enrique as the club's new manager, Neymar and Marco Verratti were informed that they would not be in the team's plans for the following season.{{cite web |date=9 August 2023 |title=Neymar is informed by Luis Enrique that PSG does not count on him, says radio |url=https://placar.com.br/futebol-europeu/neymar-e-informado-por-luis-enrique-que-psg-nao-conta-com-ele-diz-radio/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230816033608/https://placar.com.br/futebol-europeu/neymar-e-informado-por-luis-enrique-que-psg-nao-conta-com-ele-diz-radio/ |archive-date=16 August 2023 |access-date=17 September 2023 |publisher=Scoreboard}}

Despite being PSG's fourth-highest scorer and winning ten trophies, including five Ligue 1 titles, Neymar's tenure at PSG was marred by injuries and unfulfilled expectations, most notably not helping PSG win a Champions League. He missed 119 matches for PSG in total and only played over 30 games (in a single season) once as a result of being injured around 20 times across his six-year spell, showing a fragility that was not seen either at Barcelona or Santos.{{Cite news |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar leaves PSG: The Brazilian star's turbulent journey in the French capital |language=en |work=Le Monde.fr |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/sports/article/2023/08/15/neymar-leaves-psg-the-brazilian-star-s-turbulent-journey-in-the-french-capital_6094563_9.html |access-date=12 November 2023 |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183407/https://www.lemonde.fr/en/sports/article/2023/08/15/neymar-leaves-psg-the-brazilian-star-s-turbulent-journey-in-the-french-capital_6094563_9.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=Castro |first1=Jorge |date=29 August 2019 |title=Neymar ahead of Bale for time out through injury |url=https://en.as.com/en/2019/08/29/football/1567075330_718706.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813071016/https://en.as.com/en/2019/08/29/football/1567075330_718706.html |archive-date=13 August 2020 |access-date=27 June 2020 |work=AS.com}} His injury struggles hindered his explosiveness and contributed to him not achieving more in his prime years.{{Cite news |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar leaves PSG: The Brazilian star's turbulent journey in the French capital |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/sports/article/2023/08/15/neymar-leaves-psg-the-brazilian-star-s-turbulent-journey-in-the-french-capital_6094563_9.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183407/https://www.lemonde.fr/en/sports/article/2023/08/15/neymar-leaves-psg-the-brazilian-star-s-turbulent-journey-in-the-french-capital_6094563_9.html |archive-date=9 February 2024 |access-date=12 November 2023 |work=Le Monde.fr |language=en}} In 2023, Spanish publication Marca wrote that "Neymar's star is dimming due to a seemingly endless string of injuries".{{Cite web |date=18 October 2023 |title=Neymar's injury hell threatens to derail his career: 16 since 2018 and 640 days sidelined |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/2023/10/19/653060b322601d9a638b45be.html |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=MARCA |language=en}} James Westwood of Goal was highly critical of Neymar's decision to join PSG, believing that he wasted the best years of his career and that in 2017 he had "the world at his feet" playing for Barcelona, hindering his chances to join the likes of Pelé and Messi as a "true legend of the game".{{Quote box

| quote = "It is naturally difficult to say goodbye to a legend of the club, which Neymar will always be. I will never forget the day he arrived at PSG, nor what he brought to the club and to our project over the course of these six years. We have lived through extraordinary times and Neymar will always be a part of our history. I want to thank him, as well as his family. We wish Neymar the best for the future and for his next adventure."

| source = — PSG's President Nasser Al-Khelaifi on Neymar's departure from Paris Saint-Germain.{{cite web |url=https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/psg-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-on-neymars-departure-its-difficult-to-say-goodbye-to-a-legend-of-the-club/ |title=PSG PRESIDENT NASSER AL KHELAIFI ON NEYMAR'S DEPARTURE: "IT'S DIFFICULT TO SAY GOODBYE TO A LEGEND OF THE CLUB." |website=Get Football News France |date=15 August 2023 |access-date=3 October 2023 |archive-date=7 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231007110000/https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/psg-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-on-neymars-departure-its-difficult-to-say-goodbye-to-a-legend-of-the-club/ |url-status=live }}

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}}Regardless, Neymar has been credited as a legend of PSG, trailing only Ibrahimović, Cavani, and Mbappé in the club's top scorers at the time of his departure, and one of the great players in the history of Ligue 1.{{Cite web |date=2019-10-11 |title=Ligue 1 Team of the Decade: Ibrahimovic & Mbappe form dream attack {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/ligue-1-team-of-the-decade/1nmn1e6sgkutb1bfq1gk7cb2gg |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Churchill |first=Max |date=2024-09-15 |title=10 Greatest Players in Ligue 1 History [Ranked] |url=https://www.givemesport.com/greatest-players-ligue-1-france-football-history-ranked/ |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=GiveMeSport |language=en}} During his time at PSG, he embraced the role of a true number 10, evolving into a more well-rounded player as he took on greater responsibility in dictating the flow of the game, more so than during his tenure at Barcelona. He also assumed greater priority within the team, being entrusted with set pieces and penalties.{{Cite web |date=2025-01-31 |title=Neymar signs for Santos: The prince who never became king at Barcelona or PSG |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c93q0vr1klxo |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} His goal-scoring success at PSG made him one of the few players to have scored at least 100 goals for three different clubs,{{cite news |title=Neymar emulates Ronaldo & Romario after bringing up 100 goals for PSG |url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/neymar-emulates-ronaldo-and-romario-after-bringing-up-100/blt80a379c4f483a5d0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527215641/https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/neymar-emulates-ronaldo-and-romario-after-bringing-up-100/blt80a379c4f483a5d0 |archive-date=27 May 2022 |access-date=27 May 2022 |website=Goal.com}} and he also established himself as the highest-scoring Brazilian in the Champions League at the club.{{Cite web |date=20 December 2022 |title=Neymar, Roberto Firmino, Thiago Silva: Who are Brazil's top UEFA Champions League performers? |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/027c-16dec5d3607f-e40e8954f229-1000--neymar-roberto-firmino-thiago-silva-who-are-brazil-s-top-uef/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230819101738/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/027c-16dec5d3607f-e40e8954f229-1000--neymar-roberto-firmino-thiago-silva-who-are-brazil-s-top-uef/ |archive-date=19 August 2023 |access-date=19 August 2023 |website=UEFA }} Reflecting on his years at PSG, Neymar said that although continuous injuries affected his PSG career, he experienced his peak as a footballer at the club.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-15 |title=Neymar bizarrely claims his 'best sporting years were at PSG' despite lingering 'feeling of sadness' over his time with Ligue 1 giants {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/neymar-bizarrely-claims-his-best-sporting-years-were-at-psg-despite-sadness-time-with-ligue-1-giants/blt8519ceda4485b1ef |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}

Neymar was linked with a potential return to Barcelona. However, Barcelona's hierarchy never reached an advanced stage to discuss finer economic details and possibilities, as the club's manager Xavi was not keen on signing him, leading both clubs to fail to reach an agreement.{{cite web|url=https://everythingbarca.com/2023/08/15/barcelona-neymar-al-hilal-xavi/|title=Why Barcelona failed to sign Neymar ahead of Al-Hilal |date=15 August 2023|publisher=Everything Barça|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=3 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003201323/https://everythingbarca.com/2023/08/15/barcelona-neymar-al-hilal-xavi/|url-status=live}}

File:Neymar Jr. with Al Hilal, 3 October 2023 - 07 (cropped).jpg

On 15 August 2023, Neymar completed a transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal on a two-year contract, joining a list of European league players who signed for the club.{{cite web |title=Paris Saint-Germain thank Neymar Jr, a club legend |url=https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/paris-saint-germain-thank-neymar-jr-a-club-legend |website=Paris Saint-Germain F.C. |date=15 August 2023 |access-date=15 August 2023 |archive-date=15 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815170036/https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/paris-saint-germain-thank-neymar-jr-a-club-legend |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Brazil's Neymar signs for Saudi football club Al Hilal |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2023/8/15/brazils-neymar-signs-for-saudi-football-club-al-hilal |work=Al Jazeera |date=15 August 2023 |access-date=15 August 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027002018/https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2023/8/15/brazils-neymar-signs-for-saudi-football-club-al-hilal |url-status=live }} The transfer fee was reported to be worth €90 million, making him the most expensive purchase in Saudi Pro League history. He is also reportedly being paid €150m a year at Al Hilal, six times the amount he earned at PSG.{{Cite news |title=Neymar - superstar with a legacy unfulfilled? |language=en-GB |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66505930 |access-date=28 October 2023 |archive-date=28 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028102324/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66505930 |url-status=live }} As a marquee signing, Neymar's transfer to Al Hilal drew comparisons to former Brazil international Rivellino's transfer to the club in 1978.

According to The Independent, Barcelona were the only European club who showed genuine interest in signing Neymar; other top clubs turned away primarily due to his high salary and the expected transfer fee to sign him.{{Cite web |date=14 August 2023 |title=Neymar agrees Saudi move after only one European club showed interest |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/neymar-saudi-arabia-al-hilal-barcelona-transfer-b2392684.html |access-date=23 November 2023 |website=The Independent |language=en |archive-date=23 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123111040/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/neymar-saudi-arabia-al-hilal-barcelona-transfer-b2392684.html |url-status=live }} Some media outlets criticised Neymar for choosing to not remain in a top European league and dubbed him as the 'Prince who never became King' due to leaving Europe without winning the Ballon d'Or.{{Cite web |last=TB |first=Sai Aswin |date=20 August 2023 |title=Neymar - the Prince who never became King |url=https://thefederal.com/category/sports/neymar-the-prince-who-never-became-the-king-94577 |access-date=27 October 2023 |website=thefederal.com |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Akdeniz |first=Tolga |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar Junior: The dazzling Crown Prince of Brazil who failed to become King |url=https://www.flashscore.com/news/soccer-champions-league-neymar-junior-the-dazzling-crown-prince-of-brazil-who-failed-to-become-king/KfqRle0l/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131011434/https://www.flashscore.com/news/soccer-champions-league-neymar-junior-the-dazzling-crown-prince-of-brazil-who-failed-to-become-king/KfqRle0l/ |archive-date=31 January 2024 |access-date=31 January 2024 |work=Flashscore}} However, Neymar declared, "I wouldn't be surprised if the Saudi league is better than the French", in light of fellow star players joining the league, including Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.{{Cite web |date=5 October 2023 |title='Clock's ticking': Saudi's $9bn sporting blitz explained, what the point is, and why it's just the start |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/saudi-arabian-football-sport-revolution-explained-which-players-have-signed-how-much-has-nation-spent/news-story/42129df147d6dd15c04cdc29035f1bbc |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=Fox Sports |language=en |archive-date=15 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115093156/https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/saudi-arabian-football-sport-revolution-explained-which-players-have-signed-how-much-has-nation-spent/news-story/42129df147d6dd15c04cdc29035f1bbc |url-status=live }}

On 15 September 2023, he made his club debut in Saudi Arabia during a 6–1 thrashing of Al-Riyadh, coming off the bench and providing an assist to a goal by fellow Brazilian, Malcom.{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-makes-debut-al-hilal-hand-al-riyadh-6-1-thrashing-2023-09-16/ |title=Neymar makes debut as Al-Hilal hand Al-Riyadh 6-1 thrashing |publisher=Reuters |date=16 September 2023 |access-date=16 September 2023 |archive-date=16 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230916135131/https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-makes-debut-al-hilal-hand-al-riyadh-6-1-thrashing-2023-09-16/ |url-status=live }} That same year, on 3 October, Neymar scored his first goal for the club in a 3–0 away win against Nassaji Mazandaran in an AFC Champions League group stage match.{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-target-al-hilal-secure-asian-champions-league-win-2023-10-03/ |title=Neymar on target as Al-Hilal secure Asian Champions League win |website=Reuters |date=3 October 2023 |access-date=3 October 2023 |archive-date=3 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003201331/https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-target-al-hilal-secure-asian-champions-league-win-2023-10-03/ |url-status=live }} Having played five games for his new club, Neymar ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament while on international duty in October 2023.{{cite news |title=Neymar to have surgery after ACL injury |publisher=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/67152531 |date=18 October 2023 |access-date=18 October 2023 |archive-date=18 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018205021/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/67152531 |url-status=live }} In January 2024, Al Hilal deregistered Neymar as a result of his season ending injury, in order to free up one of the eight foreign roster spots for Renan Lodi.{{Cite web |date=21 January 2024 |title=Renan Lodi replaces Neymar: Al Hilal deregisters him as they run out of space. – Super European League |url=https://supereuropeanleague.com/renan-lodi-replaces-neymar-al-hilal-deregisters-him-as-they-run-out-of-space/ |access-date=21 January 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183403/https://supereuropeanleague.com/renan-lodi-replaces-neymar-al-hilal-deregisters-him-as-they-run-out-of-space/ |url-status=live }}

Neymar returned to action on 21 October 2024 during Al Hilal's AFC Champions League match against Al Ain, marking his comeback after a lengthy absence.{{cite web |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-mena/football/afc-champions-league/articles-video/neymar-returns-for-al-hilal-in-al-ain-thriller-2024-10-21 |title=Neymar returns for Al Hilal in Al Ain thriller |publisher=beIN SPORTS |date=21 October 2024 }} However, a few weeks later, he suffered a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the rest of the year.{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-miss-least-month-due-hamstring-injury-2024-11-06/ |title=Neymar to miss at least a month due to hamstring injury |publisher=Reuters |date=6 November 2024 }} At the end of 2024, Neymar was named as one of three winners of the Player Career Award at the Globe Soccer Awards, alongside former England defender Rio Ferdinand and Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-28 |title='My name written in football history' - Neymar promises he 'won't stop here' after Al-Hilal and Brazil hero wins prize at Globe Soccer Awards {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-promises-wont-stop-after-al-hilal-brazil-hero-wins-prize-globe-soccer-awards/blt28636ec8beb98f4a |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}} After receiving award, Neymar posted his gratitude on social media to say his name is "written in football history" and he has more to give in the game.

In January 2025, Neymar was not registered for the league competition during the second half of the 2024–25 season, in which Al Hilal coach Jorge Jesus stated in the press room: "Neymar can no longer perform at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately".{{cite web |url=https://www.besoccer.com/new/neymar-not-registered-for-second-half-of-saudi-league-season-1344430 |title=Neymar NOT registered for second half of Saudi league season |publisher=BeSoccer |date=17 January 2025 }} On 27 January 2025, the club announced an agreement for the termination of his contract by mutual consent.{{Cite tweet |author=AlHilal Saudi Club |user=Alhilal_EN |number=1884015745589518834 |date=27 January 2025 |title=Full club statement 🔹 |access-date=27 January 2025 |link=https://x.com/Alhilal_EN/status/1884015745589518834 }}

Neymar totalled one goal and three assists in seven appearances for Al Hilal;{{Cite web |date=2024-11-07 |title=Neymar's Al Hilal Contract Situation Could Pave Way for Inter Miami Transfer |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/neymar-al-hilal-contract-inter-miami-transfer |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=SI |language=en-US}} considering his transfer fee and wages, various media outlets debated whether Neymar's transfer to the club is the worst transfer in football history.{{Cite news |last=Staff |first=The Athletic UK |title=Who is football's worst transfer ever? From Neymar and Antony to Coutinho and Hazard |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6102516/2025/02/01/transfer-worst-ever-neymar-antony/# |access-date=2025-03-02 |work=The New York Times |date=February 2025 |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web |date=2024-11-07 |title=Neymar to Al-Hilal: The worst transfer in football history {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/neymar-al-hilal-worst-transfer-football-history/bltb5ae92c60547f31d |access-date=2025-03-02 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |author1=Ryan Dabbs |date=2025-01-29 |title=Is Neymar to Al-Hilal the worst transfer ever? |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/is-neymar-to-al-hilal-the-worst-transfer-ever |access-date=2025-03-02 |website=fourfourtwo.com |language=en}}

On 30 January 2025, Neymar announced through his social media that he would be signing a contract with his first club Santos.{{Cite web |date=2025-01-28 |title=Neymar returns to Brazilian club Santos after termination of contract in Saudi Arabia |url=https://apnews.com/article/saudi-al-hilal-neymar-terminate-contract-0c6470e475b427b6a240f0ec18e0bb48 |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=AP News |language=en}}{{cite web|url=https://ge.globo.com/sp/santos-e-regiao/futebol/times/santos/noticia/2025/01/30/neymar-anuncia-retorno-ao-santos.ghtml|title=Neymar anuncia retorno ao Brasil: "Só o Santos pode me proporcionar o carinho que eu preciso"|trans-title=Neymar announce return to Brazil: "Only Santos can give me the love that I need"|publisher=ge|language=pt-BR|date=30 January 2025|accessdate=30 January 2025}} The following day, Santos confirmed his return.{{cite web|url=https://ge.globo.com/sp/santos-e-regiao/futebol/times/santos/noticia/2025/01/31/santos-anuncia-a-contratacao-de-neymar.ghtml|title=Santos anuncia a contratação de Neymar: "Vai ser uma honra vestir esse manto sagrado"|trans-title=Santos announce the signing of Neymar: "It will be an honor to wear this holy shirt"|publisher=ge|language=pt-BR|date=31 January 2025|accessdate=31 January 2025}} He will wear the number 10, the number which Pelé had worn during his time spent between 1956 and 1974.{{Cite web |date=2025-01-31 |title=Foot : «Honorer ta légende», Neymar portera le mythique numéro 10 du roi Pelé avec Santos |url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/sports/football/foot-honorer-ta-legende-neymar-portera-le-mythique-numero-10-du-roi-pele-avec-santos-20250131 |access-date=2025-02-02 |website=Le Figaro |language=fr}}

Neymar made his re-debut for Peixe on 6 February 2025, coming on as a half-time substitute for Gabriel Bontempo in a 1–1 Campeonato Paulista home draw against Botafogo-SP.{{cite web|url=https://www.lance.com.br/santos/botafogo-surpreende-e-arranca-empate-com-o-santos-em-reestreia-de-neymar.html|title=Melhores momentos: Neymar reestreia com empate em Santos x Botafogo-SP|trans-title=Highlights: Neymar re-debuts with a draw at Santos vs Botafogo-SP|publisher=Lance!|language=pt-BR|date=5 February 2025|accessdate=6 February 2025}} According to Reuters, "The Urbano Caldeira stadium erupted in celebration as jubilant and tearful fans lit up their mobile phones to give the striker, who left the club 12 years ago, a hero's welcome before kick-off."{{Cite web |title=Neymar makes lacklustre Santos return in 1–1 draw with Botafogo |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/neymar-makes-lacklustre-santos-return-1-1-draw-with-botafogo-2025-02-06/ |publisher=Reuters|date=6 February 2025}} He received the Man of the Match award after the match.{{cite web |last1=Watach |first1=Nestor |title=Neymar's first touch on his fairytale Santos return is guaranteed to make you wince |url=https://www.planetfootball.com/latest/neymar-santos-debut-last-dance-era-moment-made-us-wince |website=Global Food |access-date=20 February 2025 |date=6 February 2025}}

He scored his first goal after returning ten days later, netting the opener in a 3–1 home win over Água Santa through a penalty; he also assisted Guilherme in the club's third goal, and a Man of the Match award.{{cite web|url=https://ge.globo.com/sp/santos-e-regiao/futebol/times/santos/noticia/2025/02/16/neymar-faz-primeiro-gol-em-retorno-ao-santos-e-volta-a-marcar-pelo-clube-apos-13-anos.ghtml|title=Neymar faz primeiro gol em retorno ao Santos e volta a marcar pelo clube após 13 anos|trans-title=Neymar scores first goal in return to Santos and scores for the club again after 13 years|publisher=ge|language=pt-BR|date=16 February 2025|accessdate=17 February 2025}} On 23 February 2025, Neymar scored directly from a corner kick and earned another Man of the Match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/Soccer/2025/02/24/brazil-Neymar-first-corner-kick-goal/6901740406590/|title=Watch: Neymar irks jeering crowd by scoring first corner kick goal - UPI.com|website=UPI}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43992523/neymar-scores-directly-corner-draw-cheers-opposition-fans|title=Neymar scores direct from corner: 'I meant it'|date=24 February 2025|website=ESPN.com}} During his second stint at Santos, Neymar was proving that he can still make a difference, with his physical fitness experiecing an improvement compared to his time at Al Hilal.{{Cite web |last=Brazil |first=As rumors about his return to Barcelona keep growing day by day, Neymar is proving in every match with Santos in this second stint in |title=Neymar Shows Off Again with Santos as Rumors Grow About a Return to Barcelona |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/neymar-shows-off-again-with-santos-as-rumors-grow-about-a-return-to-barcelona-2025-03-03 |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=beIN SPORTS |language=en-us}} He would make his Série A debut on 13 March, coming on as a substitute 1–0 loss against Fluminense. On 16 March, he changed his number to 100 for the match against Atlético Mineiro which resulted in a 2–0 win.

File:Neymar.jpg in August 2010. He made his senior debut that month aged 18.]]

Following Neymar's performances for Santos in their successful early 2010 season, including winning the 2010 Copa do Brasil, in which he was the top goalscorer, and the 2010 Campeonato Paulista, in which he scored 14 goals, former Brazilian football players Pelé and Romário reportedly urged coach Dunga to take Neymar to the 2010 World Cup. Although the opinion that Neymar deserved a place in Dunga's squad went as far as a 14,000 signature petition,{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/may/04/world-cup-watch-37-days-to-go|title=World Cup watch ... 37 days to go|date=4 May 2010|work=The Guardian|location=UK|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305032643/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/may/04/world-cup-watch-37-days-to-go|archive-date=5 March 2017}} and despite the pressure on Dunga to pick Neymar,{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8669086.stm|title=Brazil coach Dunga faces World Cup selection challenge|date=7 May 2010|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} he was omitted from both the squad of 23,{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8676077.stm|title=Ronaldinho left out of Brazil World Cup squad|date=11 May 2010|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805150705/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8676077.stm|archive-date=5 August 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/soccer/world-cup-2010/writers/tim_vickery/05/14/brazil.roster/|title=Brazil's Dunga unfazed by critics|date=18 May 2010|work=CNN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100521091201/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/soccer/world-cup-2010/writers/tim_vickery/05/14/brazil.roster/|archive-date=21 May 2010}} and the stand-by list.{{cite web|url=http://pitacodogringo.wordpress.com/2010/05/11/tottenham%E2%80%99s-sandro-ranieri-on-brazil%E2%80%99s-world-cup2010-reserve-list/|title=Tottenham Hotspur's Sandro Ranieri on Brazil's World Cup2010 reserve list|date=11 May 2010|publisher=Picato do Gringo|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100516235255/http://pitacodogringo.wordpress.com/2010/05/11/tottenham%E2%80%99s-sandro-ranieri-on-brazil%E2%80%99s-world-cup2010-reserve-list/|archive-date=16 May 2010}} Although Dunga described Neymar as "extremely talented", he said that the 18-year-old had not been tested sufficiently on the international level to earn a World Cup spot and he had failed to impress enough while on international duty.{{cite web|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/785217/ce/uk/?cc=5739&ver=global |title=Ronaldinho misses Brazil cut |date=11 May 2010 |work=ESPN Soccernet |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100514091654/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/785217/ce/uk/?cc=5739&ver=global |archive-date=14 May 2010 }}

On 26 July 2010, Neymar was selected for the first time in the Brazil senior team by new head coach Mano Menezes for a friendly match against the United States to be played in East Rutherford, New Jersey. On 10 August 2010, he made his debut with the national team in that game, aged 18 years old, starting the match and wearing the number 11 jersey. He scored on his debut after 28 minutes, a header coming from an André Santos cross in a 2–0 win for Brazil.{{cite web|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=813452&sec=global&cc=5739|title=Neymar scores on Brazil debut|date=11 August 2010|work=ESPN Soccernet|access-date=13 August 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102085237/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=813452&sec=global&cc=5739|archive-date=2 November 2012}} On 1 March 2011, Neymar said: "Being on the Brazilian team is a privilege, There are some marvelous players and I'm very happy to be among them."

File:André Santos, Neymar and Ramires celebrate Neymars goal.jpg for Brazil against Scotland, on 27 March 2011, with André Santos and Ramires.]]

On 27 March 2011, he scored twice in a 2–0 win against Scotland at the Emirates Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/9431234.stm|title=Scotland 0–2 Brazil|date=27 March 2011|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=29 March 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} During the match against Scotland, a banana was thrown onto the pitch after he scored from the penalty spot, which led Neymar to complain about 'constant jeering and an atmosphere of racism', implying that Scottish fans exhibited racism.{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/27/neymar-racism-brazil-scotland | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Ewan | last=Murray | title=Brazil's Neymar answers back after banana is thrown in Scotland match | date=27 March 2011 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305031551/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/27/neymar-racism-brazil-scotland | archive-date=5 March 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/International-friendly-Scotland-0-2-Brazil-Neymar-complains-that-banana-was-thrown-at-him-article717728.html |title=Brazil-Scotland friendly marred by Neymar banana incident |date=27 March 2011 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=29 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728094347/http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/International-friendly-Scotland-0-2-Brazil-Neymar-complains-that-banana-was-thrown-at-him-article717728.html |archive-date=28 July 2011 }} While Scottish officials explained that Neymar had been booed solely for perceived injury-feigning, a German student who was in the stadium amongst Brazil supporters said that he threw the banana with no racist intentions. This led to the Scottish Football Association asking the Brazilian Football Confederation for an apology for the accusations made to the Scottish fans.{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/29/german-teenager-banana-brazil | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Ewan | last=Murray | title=German teenager admits throwing banana during Brazil v Scotland match | date=29 March 2011 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305032357/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/29/german-teenager-banana-brazil | archive-date=5 March 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/12925272.stm|title=Scottish FA seeks apology from Brazil over racism claim|date=31 March 2011|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=31 March 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}} Neymar refused to apologise or retract his words, claiming he "did not accuse any person or any group of supporters".{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/31/scottish-fa-apology-brazil-racism-neymar | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Ewan | last=Murray | title=Scottish FA demands apology from Brazil over claims of racism | date=31 March 2011 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305032254/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/mar/31/scottish-fa-apology-brazil-racism-neymar | archive-date=5 March 2017}}{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/apr/01/brazil-neymar-scotland-racism-claims | location=London | work=The Guardian | title=Brazil's Neymar refuses to apologise to Scotland for racism claims | date=1 April 2011 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305031830/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/apr/01/brazil-neymar-scotland-racism-claims | archive-date=5 March 2017}}

Neymar was the leading goal scorer of the 2011 South American Youth Championship with nine goals, including two in the final, in Brazil's 6–0 win against Uruguay.{{cite news|title=Brazil hit heights once more |url=https://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/news/y=2011/m=2/news=brazil-hit-heights-once-more-1382702.html|agency=FIFA.com|date=21 August 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305063735/http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/news/y%3D2011/m%3D2/news%3Dbrazil-hit-heights-once-more-1382702.html|archive-date=5 March 2017}} He also took part at the 2011 Copa América in Argentina, where he scored two goals in the first-round game against Ecuador. He was selected 'Man of the Match' in Brazil's first match against Venezuela, which ended a 1–1 draw. Brazil were eliminated in the quarter-finals in a penalty shoot-out against Paraguay (2–2 a.e.t.), with Neymar being substituted in the 80th minute.{{cite news|title=Brazil v Paraguay – As it happened |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jul/17/brazil-paraguay-live-copa-america|work=The Guardian|date=21 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810012754/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jul/17/brazil-paraguay-live-copa-america|archive-date=10 August 2014}}

File:Lucas e Neymar 02.jpg on international duty in 2012]]

By 20 years old, Neymar was viewed as the star player of the national team.{{Cite news |last=Borden |first=Sam |date=2012-07-10 |title=A Soccer Prodigy, at Home in Brazil |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/10/sports/soccer/neymar-soccer-prodigy-is-at-home-in-brazil.html |access-date=2025-06-02 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} On 11 May 2012, Neymar was selected for the squad of the Brazil Olympic football team to participate in the London 2012 Olympic Games.{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/olympics/football/ones-to-watch/21746/7060689/ |location=London |publisher=Sky Sports |title=Neymar Profile for 2012 Olympics |date=29 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623115348/http://www1.skysports.com/olympics/football/ones-to-watch/21746/7060689/ |archive-date=23 June 2012 }}

In Brazil's first warm-up match on 20 July 2012, against the host nation Great Britain at Riverside Stadium, Neymar was involved in both goals of a 2–0 win, first making an assist with a free-kick into the six-yard box for Sandro's header, before converting a penalty.{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/18929315 | location=London | publisher=BBC Sport | title=Team GB were outclassed by Neymar | date=20 July 2012 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120904210333/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/18929315 | archive-date=4 September 2012}} On 26 July, he scored his first goal in Brazil's opening fixture against Egypt, which ended a 3–2 victory for Brazil.{{cite news |url=http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match=fbm400c02/doc=results.html |location=London |publisher=BBC Sport |title=Brazil 3–2 Egypt |date=26 July 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120731223405/http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match%3Dfbm400c02/doc%3Dresults.html |archive-date=31 July 2012 }} In the following match against Belarus at Old Trafford in Manchester, Neymar scored a free-kick from 25-yards into the top-right corner of the goal and set up goals for Alexandre Pato's header with a cross from the right and Oscar with a back heel as Brazil secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 3–1 win. Afterwards he said: "I scored and made two assists so for me it was perfect".{{cite news | url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1128175/men's-olympics:-neymar-lifts-brazil,-uruguay-stunned?cc=3888 | publisher=ESPN | title=Neymar lifts Brazil | date=29 July 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html | archive-date=11 June 2015}}{{cite news|url=http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match=fbm400c03/index.html |location=London |publisher=BBC Sport |title=Brazil 3–1 Belarus |date=29 July 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730083726/http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match%3Dfbm400c03/index.html |archive-date=30 July 2012 }}

On 5 August 2012, in the quarter-final encounter against Honduras, Neymar scored a penalty, his third goal of the tournament and assisted in Leandro Damião's second goal on the match, to help Brazil to a 3–2 victory at St James' Park and book a place in the semi-finals.{{cite news|url=http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match=fbm400302/index.html |location=London |publisher=BBC Sport |title=Brazil 3–2 Honduras |date=4 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805013453/http://london2012.bbc.co.uk/football/event/men/match%3Dfbm400302/index.html |archive-date=5 August 2012 }} On 11 August, Brazil lost 2–1 to Mexico in the final at Wembley Stadium in London.{{cite news|title=Mexico 2–1 Brazil: Olympic final match report|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/football/9469331/Mexico-2-1-Brazil-Olympic-final-match-report.html|issue=12 August 2012|work=The Telegraph|date=9 April 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151006211535/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/football/9469331/Mexico-2-1-Brazil-Olympic-final-match-report.html|archive-date=6 October 2015}}

Neymar scored his first full international hat-trick on 10 September 2012, in an 8–0 win over China at the Estádio José do Rego Maciel in Recife.{{cite news|last1=Edwards|first1=Daniel|title=Brazil 8–0 China: Neymar nets hat trick in crushing victory|url=http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/brazil-vs-china-pr/1377193/report?ICID=MP_MS_5|access-date=12 June 2014|work=Goal.com|date=10 September 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140726091739/http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/brazil-vs-china-pr/1377193/report?ICID=MP_MS_5|archive-date=26 July 2014}} On 19 September, Neymar scored the winner against Argentina in a 2–1 win in the first leg of the 2012 Superclásico de las Américas at the Estádio Serra Dourada in Goiânia, Brazil.{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/news/newsid=1939984.html |title=Brazil edge rivals Argentina |date=22 November 2012 |publisher=FIFA |access-date=30 June 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140709012021/http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/news/newsid%3D1939984.html |archive-date=9 July 2014 }}

File:Pique&neymar.jpg in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup Final]]

Neymar was selected as part of Luiz Felipe Scolari's Brazil squad for the 2013 Confederations Cup on home soil. For the tournament he was assigned the number 10 shirt, having previously worn 11.{{Cite news|url=http://sports.inquirer.net/105255/football-neymar-renews-brazils-number-10-love-affair|title=Neymar renews Brazil's number 10 love affair|date=16 June 2013|access-date=18 June 2013|work=Inquirer|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620162230/http://sports.inquirer.net/105255/football-neymar-renews-brazils-number-10-love-affair|archive-date=20 June 2013}}

Neymar scored the first goal of the tournament in a 3–0 win over Japan at the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha on 15 June.{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/newsid=2109892/index.html |title=Three and easy for Brazil |publisher=FIFA |date=15 June 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522143826/http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/newsid%3D2109892/index.html |archive-date=22 May 2014 }} In their second match, Neymar scored after nine minutes and crossed for Jô's late goal to give Brazil a 2–0 win over Mexico.{{cite web|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20130619/brazil-mexico-neymar-confederations-cup.ap/ |title=Neymar, Brazil beat Mexico in Confederations Cup |agency=Associated Press |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=19 June 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203004135/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20130619/brazil-mexico-neymar-confederations-cup.ap/ |archive-date=3 December 2013 }} He scored in his third consecutive match, with a powerful free kick from the edge of the penalty area, as Brazil beat Italy 4–2, and received his third consecutive man-of-the-match award.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/matches/round=255199/match=300222457/summary.html |title=Fred brace sees Brazil top group |publisher=FIFA |date=22 June 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522142913/http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/matches/round%3D255199/match%3D300222457/summary.html |archive-date=22 May 2014 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/awards/manofthematch/ |title=Man of the match |publisher=FIFA |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522143319/http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/awards/manofthematch/ |archive-date=22 May 2014 }}

On 30 June, Neymar was involved in Fred's opening goal and then subsequently scored Brazil's second in the 3–0 final victory over Spain.{{cite web|author=Ben Smith|date=1 July 2013|title=Brazil 3–0 Spain|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/23093784|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808215622/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/23093784|archive-date=8 August 2019|access-date=2 September 2017|publisher=BBC Sport}} Neymar's performances saw him receive the Golden Ball for player of the tournament.{{cite news|url=http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/06/30/confederations-cup-awards-neymar-fernando-torres-brazil-spain-golden-ball-shoe-boot/|title=Neymar wins best player, and yes, Torres picks up another award|date=30 June 2013|work=NBC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130702160231/http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/06/30/confederations-cup-awards-neymar-fernando-torres-brazil-spain-golden-ball-shoe-boot/|archive-date=2 July 2013}}

On 5 March 2014, Neymar scored a hat-trick in a friendly win against South Africa in Johannesburg. He made headlines for his conduct after the final whistle when a South African boy ran onto the pitch. As security staff began to escort the boy from the field, Neymar intervened and introduced him to his Brazil teammates before they lifted him in the air during their celebrations.[https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/watch-heartwarming-moment-neymar-brazil-3211567 "Watch the heartwarming moment Neymar and Brazil embraced a jubilant young South African fan"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140603195808/http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/watch-heartwarming-moment-neymar-brazil-3211567 |date=3 June 2014 }}. The Mirror. Retrieved 3 June 2014[http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/03/neymar-brazil-south-africa-little-adorable-kid "An adorable kid ran on to the field during the Brazil-South Africa game"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606204118/http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/03/neymar-brazil-south-africa-little-adorable-kid |date=6 June 2014 }}. USA Today. Retrieved 3 June 2014

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On 2 June, Neymar was named in the Brazil squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/brazil/10810176/Brazil-World-Cup-2014-squad.html|title=Brazil World Cup 2014 squad|date=2 June 2014|access-date=24 June 2014|work=The Telegraph|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602213130/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/brazil/10810176/Brazil-World-Cup-2014-squad.html|archive-date=2 June 2014}} Going into the tournament, as the team's star player Neymar was expected to lead Brazil to their sixth World Cup success, and first title on home soil.{{cite news|url=http://www.nation.co.ke/Worldcup/Pele-worried-about-great-expectations-for-Neymar/-/925198/2344716/-/v87bysz/-/index.html|title=Pele worried about great expectations for Neymar|date=11 June 2014|access-date=24 June 2014|work=Daily Nation|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122231534/http://www.nation.co.ke/Worldcup/Pele-worried-about-great-expectations-for-Neymar/-/925198/2344716/-/v87bysz/-/index.html|archive-date=22 January 2016}}{{Cite web |title=A NATION HOPES... |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/9343356/a-nation-hopes |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=Sky Sports |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Hassett |first=Sebastian |date=2014-06-12 |title=Neymar: the Brazil star with the weight of a nation on his shoulders |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/neymar-the-brazil-star-with-the-weight-of-a-nation-on-his-shoulders-20140612-zs4pv.html |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Dom |date=June 5, 2014 |title=Neymar has the weight of the World Cup on his shoulders |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/dcunited/neymar-has-the-weight-of-the-world-cup-on-his-shoulders/2014/06/05/384bca44-eb65-11e3-b98c-72cef4a00499_story.html |website=The Washington Post}} One week prior to the team's opening match, Neymar scored once and made two assists in a 4–0 friendly win over Panama.[https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/neymar-leads-brazil-win-panama-23980985 "Neymar leads Brazil to 4–0 win over Panama"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605154953/https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/neymar-leads-brazil-win-panama-23980985 |date=5 June 2014 }}. ABC News. Retrieved 3 June 2014

Neymar earned his 50th international cap in the opening match of the tournament, on 12 June against Croatia in São Paulo. In the 26th minute, with Croatia leading 1–0, Neymar elbowed Croatian midfielder Luka Modrić, after which Neymar was issued a yellow card.{{cite news |url=http://www.squawka.com/news/brazil-2-1-croatia-neymar-double-saves-selecao-embarrassment/123118 |title=Brazil 3–1 Croatia: Neymar and Oscar complete Brazil turnaround in Group A opener |work=Squawka News |last=Hamouda |first=Omar |date=12 June 2014 |access-date=25 June 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140617134318/http://www.squawka.com/news/brazil-2-1-croatia-neymar-double-saves-selecao-embarrassment/123118 |archive-date=17 June 2014 }} Many critics agreed that Neymar's punishment was too lenient and that he should have been issued a red card.{{cite news |url=http://tbo.com/ap/sports/japanese-fans-express-regret-over-nishimuras-call-ap_sportsacc2edcfdaa1487e8ac8f21b7c0e2901 |title=Japanese fans express regret over Nishimura's call |newspaper=The Tampa Tribune |agency=Associated Press |date=13 June 2014 |access-date=1 July 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140702111252/http://tbo.com/ap/sports/japanese-fans-express-regret-over-nishimuras-call-ap_sportsacc2edcfdaa1487e8ac8f21b7c0e2901 |archive-date=2 July 2014 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/cup-competitions/japan-fa-defends-ref-nishimura-1.1704070 |title=Japan FA defends ref Nishimura |work=Independent Online |agency=South African Press Association |date=16 June 2014 |access-date=17 June 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140622023340/http://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/cup-competitions/japan-fa-defends-ref-nishimura-1.1704070 |archive-date=22 June 2014 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.firstpost.com/world/brazil-live-in-japan-football-fans-ashamed-of-referee-nishimura-1566939.html |title=Brazil Live: In Japan football fans 'ashamed' of referee Nishimura |work=Firstpost |last=Perera |first=Ayeshea |date=13 June 2014 |access-date=17 June 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140615155023/http://www.firstpost.com/world/brazil-live-in-japan-football-fans-ashamed-of-referee-nishimura-1566939.html |archive-date=15 June 2014 }} He equalised before half-time with a shot from outside the box and gave Brazil the lead in the second half with a penalty kick, following a controversial decision by the referee, in an eventual 3–1 win.{{cite news|title=Brazil 3–1 Croatia|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285029|access-date=12 June 2014|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 June 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708110046/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285029|archive-date=8 July 2014}} In the third group match, he again scored twice as the Seleção defeated Cameroon 4–1 to reach the knockout stage.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285277|title=Cameroon 1–4 Brazil|date=23 June 2014|access-date=24 June 2014|publisher=BBC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140624000126/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285277|archive-date=24 June 2014}} In the round of 16 against Chile, the match finished 1–1 after 120 minutes and was decided by a penalty shoot-out with Neymar scoring what proved to be the winning kick for Brazil.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27952759 "Brazil 1–1 Chile"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140709122914/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27952759 |date=9 July 2014 }}. BBC Sport. Retrieved 30 June 2014

In the quarter-final win over Colombia, while challenging for the ball, Neymar was kneed in the back by Juan Camilo Zúñiga and had to be removed from the pitch on a stretcher. A hospital scan revealed that Neymar had suffered a fractured vertebra in his spine and he missed the rest of the World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28173132|title=Neymar: Injured Brazil forward ruled out of World Cup|date=4 July 2014|access-date=5 July 2014|publisher=BBC Sport|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705001328/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28173132|archive-date=5 July 2014}} Earlier in the match, Neymar assisted Thiago Silva's opening goal with a cross from a corner kick.{{cite news|url=https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/world-cup-brazil-colombia-matchpack-can-brazil-stop-221213226--sow.html|title=World Cup – Neymar out of finals as Brazil overcome stubborn Colombia|date=4 July 2014|access-date=6 July 2014|work=Eurosport|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714221159/https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/world-cup-brazil-colombia-matchpack-can-brazil-stop-221213226--sow.html|archive-date=14 July 2014}} It was the second Neymar assist from a corner in the tournament, after creating David Luiz's goal in the previous round against Chile. Without their injured talisman Neymar (and the suspended captain Thiago Silva), Brazil would ultimately lose in the semi-final in a stunning 7–1 defeat to eventual champion Germany on 8 July.{{cite news |last=Wallace|first=Sam|date=8 July 2014|title=Brazil vs Germany match report World Cup 2014: Utter humiliation for hosts as Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos help Germany hit seven past Selecao|work=The Independent |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/brazil-vs-germany-match-report-world-cup-2014-utter-humiliation-for-brazil-as-germany-hit-seven-9593317.html|url-status=live|access-date=2 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200102200311/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/brazil-vs-germany-match-report-world-cup-2014-utter-humiliation-for-brazil-as-germany-hit-seven-9593317.html|archive-date=2 January 2020}}

On 11 July, Neymar was named on the 10-man shortlist for FIFA's Golden Ball award for the tournament's best player.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28274011|title=World Cup 2014: Fifa announces Golden Ball shortlist|date=11 July 2014|access-date=12 July 2014|publisher=BBC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140712035351/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28274011|archive-date=12 July 2014}} He won the Bronze Boot as the tournament's third top goalscorer and was named in the World Cup All Star XI.[https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/awards/golden-boot/index.html "adidas Golden Boot"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231163656/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/awards/golden-boot/index.html |date=31 December 2014 }}. FIFA. Retrieved 16 July 2014

With captain Thiago Silva ruled out through injury, new coach Dunga decided to make Neymar captain and confirmed on 5 September that the forward would stay on as skipper on a permanent basis.[http://www.espnfc.com/brazil/story/2020716/neymar-confirmed-as-new-brazil-captain-by-dunga "Neymar replaces Thiago Silva as Brazil captain"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111035231/http://www.espnfc.com/brazil/story/2020716/neymar-confirmed-as-new-brazil-captain-by-dunga |date=11 November 2014 }}. ESPN. Retrieved 11 November 2014 On 14 October 2014, Neymar scored four goals in one game for the first time in his international career, scoring all of Brazil's goals in 4–0 friendly win against Japan at the National Stadium, Singapore.{{cite news|title=Brazil 4–0 Japan|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29619167|issue=14 October 2014|date=13 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018061146/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29619167|archive-date=18 October 2014}} At the age of just 22 years, Neymar had scored 40 goals in 58 internationals, and had become the fifth highest goalscorer for his national team.[https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/braz-recintlp.html "Goalscoring for Brazil National Team"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206104610/http://www.rsssf.com/miscellaneous/braz-recintlp.html |date=6 December 2011 }}. Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation. Retrieved 17 May 2014 On 26 March 2015, Neymar scored Brazil's second goal in a 3–1 friendly win over France in Paris.{{cite news|title=France 1–3 Brazil|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31945759|issue=26 March 2015|date=13 April 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122231534/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31945759|archive-date=22 January 2016}}

On 14 June 2015, in Brazil's opening Copa América fixture, Neymar scored the equaliser and assisted the stoppage-time winning goal by Douglas Costa as Brazil came from 0–1 down to beat Peru 2–1 in Temuco.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/33055416|title=Brazil 2–1 Peru|date=15 June 2015|publisher=BBC|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615181050/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/33055416|archive-date=15 June 2015}} After Brazil's second match, a 0–1 loss to Colombia in Santiago, Neymar was booked for handball, resulting in a suspension. After the final whistle, he was red carded for deliberately kicking the ball at Pablo Armero, and as a result was pushed over by Colombian striker Carlos Bacca, who was also dismissed.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/32832950|title=Copa America: FT: Brazil 0–1 Colombia|date=17 June 2015|publisher=BBC|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618010712/http://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/32832950|archive-date=18 June 2015}} CONMEBOL issued Neymar with a four-match ban, ruling him out for the remainder of the tournament, in addition to a $10,000 fine.{{cite news|title=Neymar suspended for remainder of Copa America tournament|url=http://www.espnfc.com/copa-america/story/2498461/neymar-suspended-for-remainder-of-copa-america|access-date=19 June 2015|publisher=ESPN|date=19 June 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620043609/http://www.espnfc.com/copa-america/story/2498461/neymar-suspended-for-remainder-of-copa-america|archive-date=20 June 2015}}

The CBF had wanted Neymar to play at the Copa América Centenario and the Olympics in Rio during the summer of 2016, but after a request from Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, he was rested from the first tournament.{{cite news|last1=Corrigan|first1=Dermot|title=Neymar absence for Brazil at Copa due to Luis Enrique's 'strong arguments' |url=http://www.espnfc.com/barcelona/story/2869291/neymar-absence-for-brazil-at-copa-due-to-luis-enriques-strong-arguments|access-date=11 May 2016|work=ESPN|date=11 May 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160511224534/http://www.espnfc.com/barcelona/story/2869291/neymar-absence-for-brazil-at-copa-due-to-luis-enriques-strong-arguments|archive-date=11 May 2016}} In late June 2016, he was subsequently one of the three over-23 players to be included in Brazil's squad for the 2016 Summer Olympics on home soil, and was named the team's captain by the Olympic side's manager Rogério Micale.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.us/brazil/story/2904522/neymar-and-douglas-costa-named-in-brazil-olympics-squad|title=Neymar, Douglas Costa named in Brazil Olympics squad|work=ESPN FC|date=29 June 2016|access-date=8 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160809001325/http://www.espnfc.us/brazil/story/2904522/neymar-and-douglas-costa-named-in-brazil-olympics-squad|archive-date=9 August 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.us/brazil/story/2920200/neymar-to-captain-brazil-in-japan-friendly-rodrigo-micale-confirms|title=Neymar to captain Brazil in Japan friendly, Rodrigo Micale confirms|work=ESPN FC|date=29 July 2016|access-date=8 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160809000814/http://www.espnfc.us/brazil/story/2920200/neymar-to-captain-brazil-in-japan-friendly-rodrigo-micale-confirms|archive-date=9 August 2016}}

File:Brasil_conquista_primeiro_ouro_ol%C3%ADmpico_no_futebol_1039247-20082016-_mg_3424.jpg]]In Brazil's quarter-final clash with Colombia on 13 August, Neymar scored Brazil's first goal of the match, from a direct free kick, and also set up his nation's second goal in an eventual 2–0 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/live/olympics/36790173|title=Brazil 2–0 Colombia|agency=BBC|date=16 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817181625/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/live/olympics/36790173|archive-date=17 August 2016}} In Brazil's semi-final clash with Honduras on 18 August, Neymar scored twice, Brazil's first and last goals of the match, in a 6–0 win.{{cite news|title=Rio Olympics 2016: Neymar scores after 14 seconds as Brazil reach final|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/37111213|access-date=18 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818105100/http://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/37111213|archive-date=18 August 2016}}

In the final against Germany at the Maracanã in Rio on 20 August, Neymar opened the scoring with a free-kick after 27 minutes. The game finished 1–1 after Max Meyer equalised in the second-half. Brazil beat Germany 5–4 on penalties, and Neymar scored the winning penalty to bring Brazil its first Olympic gold medal in men's football.{{cite web|title=Soccer: Neymar hands Brazil football gold medal|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-olympics-rio-soccer-m-idUSKCN10V0VE|work=Reuters|author=Andrew Downie|date=20 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305094045/http://www.reuters.com/article/us-olympics-rio-soccer-m-idUSKCN10V0VE|archive-date=5 March 2017}}{{cite news|title=Rio Olympics 2016: Brazil beat Germany on penalties to win men's football gold|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/36691461|publisher=BBC Sport|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821120436/http://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/36691461|archive-date=21 August 2016}} Both during and prior to the tournament, he had been subjected to criticism over his conduct on and off the pitch, with several former Brazil players suggesting that he was not fit to captain the national team.{{cite web |first=Dermot |last=Corrigan |title=Neymar not up to Brazil captaincy at Olympics |website=ESPN |date=10 August 2016 |url=https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/17262123/neymar-not-brazil-captaincy-olympics-zico |access-date=21 August 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814223145/http://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/17262123/neymar-not-brazil-captaincy-olympics-zico |archive-date=14 August 2016 }} Neymar subsequently renounced the captaincy following their Olympic victory.{{cite web |title=Neymar stands down as Brazil captain after penalty clinches Olympic gold |website=ESPN |date=21 August 2016 |url=http://www.espn.in/football/brazil/story/2934482/neymar-stands-down-as-brazil-captain-after-penalty-clinches-olympic-gold |access-date=21 August 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822170036/http://www.espn.in/football/brazil/story/2934482/neymar-stands-down-as-brazil-captain-after-penalty-clinches-olympic-gold |archive-date=22 August 2016 }}

File:Bra-Cos (13).jpg against Costa Rica at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.]]

In May 2018, Neymar was named in Tite's final 23-man squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.{{Cite web|date=14 May 2018|title=World Cup: Neymar named in Brazil's 23-man squad|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44116590|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116140842/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/amp/football/44116590|archive-date=16 November 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=BBC Sport}} On 3 June 2018, he made his international comeback after a three-month absence from a foot injury and scored a goal in a 2–0 win over Croatia in a friendly match at Anfield.{{cite web|title=Neymar makes spectacular return as Brazil beats Croatia|url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/neymar-makes-spectacular-return-brazil-beats-croatia/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613003956/https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/neymar-makes-spectacular-return-brazil-beats-croatia/|archive-date=13 June 2018|access-date=3 June 2018|publisher=Sportsnet}} The following week, he became Brazil's joint-third highest goalscorer alongside Romário when he scored his 55th international goal in a 3–0 friendly win over Austria.{{cite news|date=10 June 2018|title=Neymar joins Romario in third on Brazil's all-time scoring chart|work=Four Four Two|url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/neymar-joins-romario-third-brazils-all-time-scoring-chart|url-status=live|access-date=10 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031101802/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/neymar-joins-romario-third-brazils-all-time-scoring-chart|archive-date=31 October 2020}} In Brazil's second World Cup match, played against Costa Rica at the Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, on 22 June, Neymar scored the team's second goal in injury time as Brazil won 2–0.{{Cite web|date=22 June 2018|title=Brazil 2-0 Costa Rica: Philippe Coutinho, Neymar seal dramatic late win for Tite's side|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12027/11413107/brazil-2-0-costa-rica-philippe-coutinho-neymar-seal-dramatic-late-win-for-tites-side|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206160541/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12027/11413107/brazil-2-0-costa-rica-philippe-coutinho-neymar-seal-dramatic-late-win-for-tites-side|archive-date=6 December 2019|access-date=14 January 2021|work=Sky Sports}} The goal, his 56th for Brazil, took him third in the all-time scoring chart behind only Pelé and Ronaldo.{{cite news|date=23 June 2018|title=Willian, Neymar, and all the rest frustrate in Brazil's 2-0 win over Costa Rica|work=We Ain't Got No History|url=https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/2018/6/23/17495796/willian-neymar-and-all-the-rest-frustrate-in-brazils-2-0-win-over-costa-rica|url-status=live|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623074341/https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/2018/6/23/17495796/willian-neymar-and-all-the-rest-frustrate-in-brazils-2-0-win-over-costa-rica|archive-date=23 June 2018}}

On 2 July, Neymar scored his second goal of the World Cup in a 2–0 win over Mexico in the last 16, while also assisting Roberto Firmino for his goal.{{cite news|date=2 July 2018|title=Brazil beat Mexico to reach last 8|agency=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44597762|url-status=live|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109043559/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44597762|archive-date=9 November 2020}} After the Mexico game, BBC Sport wrote that despite Neymar's "good performances" coming up top in several statistics at the World Cup, "there is still a sense that he remains widely unpopular among neutrals" due to his "petulance and the play-acting". Meanwhile, Brazilian newspaper O Globo wrote that "Neymar has charmed Brazil, but annoyed the whole world".{{cite web|date=2 July 2018|title=World Cup 2018: Divisive Neymar 'charms Brazil, but annoys whole world'|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44689926|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190602173459/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44689926|archive-date=2 June 2019|access-date=7 July 2018|publisher=BBC Sport}} On 6 July, Brazil were eliminated after losing 2–1 against Belgium in the quarter-finals, with Neymar denied an injury time equaliser by a finger-tip save from Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.{{cite news |last=Johnston |first=Neil|date=6 July 2018|title=World Cup 2018: Belgium produce masterclass to knock out Brazil with 2–1 win|publisher=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44652178|url-status=live|access-date=7 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127153334/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44652178|archive-date=27 November 2020}}

In May 2019, Neymar was included in Brazil's 23-man squad for the 2019 Copa América on home soil.{{cite web|date=17 May 2019|title=Brazil name Copa America squad|url=https://www.football-italia.net/138152/brazil-name-copa-america-squad|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201106131142/https://www.football-italia.net/138152/brazil-name-copa-america-squad|archive-date=6 November 2020|access-date=21 May 2019|publisher=Football Italia}} On 5 June, however, he suffered an ankle injury in a 2–0 friendly win over Qatar and was ruled out of the tournament, with Neymar expected to miss four weeks due to the injury.{{cite web|last1=Gallagher|first1=Jack|title=Paris Saint-Germain Confirm Neymar Will Be Out for 4 Weeks But Injury Will Not Require Surgery|url=https://www.90min.com/posts/6386708-paris-saint-germain-confirm-neymar-will-be-out-for-4-weeks-but-injury-will-not-require-surgery|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190629130107/https://www.90min.com/posts/6386708-paris-saint-germain-confirm-neymar-will-be-out-for-4-weeks-but-injury-will-not-require-surgery|archive-date=29 June 2019|access-date=9 June 2019|website=90Min|date=8 June 2019}}{{cite web|date=9 August 2019|title=Neymar ruled out for four weeks with ankle injury - PSG|url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/neymar-ruled-out-for-four-weeks-with-ankle-injury-psg|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200405164516/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/neymar-ruled-out-for-four-weeks-with-ankle-injury-psg|archive-date=5 April 2020|access-date=9 June 2019|website=SBS News|publisher=Special Broadcasting Service}}

On 10 October 2019, Neymar played his 100th match for Brazil in a friendly draw 1–1 with Senegal in Singapore.{{cite web|date=10 October 2019|title=Neymar became the seventh man to win 100 caps for Brazil in a friendly draw with Senegal in Singapore|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/50003195|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191210084311/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/50003195|archive-date=10 December 2019|access-date=14 January 2021|website=BBC Sport}} On 13 October 2020, he scored a hat-trick in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Peru, which Brazil won 4–2. He reached his 64th international goal and surpassed Ronaldo as the nation's second highest goalscorer of all time.{{cite web|date=13 October 2020|title=Neymar surpasses Ronaldo as Brazil's second-highest goalscorer |url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/neymar-matches-ronaldo-as-brazils-second-highest-goalscorer/1a4io8y98nkeb1bm46se79l34k|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202152858/https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/neymar-matches-ronaldo-as-brazils-second-highest-goalscorer/1a4io8y98nkeb1bm46se79l34k|archive-date=2 December 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=Goal}}

On 13 June 2021, in Brazil's opening group match of the 2021 Copa América, which took place on home soil, Neymar scored his team's second goal from the penalty spot and later assisted another for Gabriel Barbosa in a 3–0 win over Venezuela.{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=560522 |title=Brazil vs. Venezuela - Football Match Report - June 13, 2021 - ESPN |work=ESPN |date=13 June 2021 |access-date=19 June 2021 |archive-date=25 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625114759/https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=560522 |url-status=live }} In the following match on 17 June, he once again scored the second goal in an eventual 4–0 win over Peru.{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/soccer/2021/06/17/brazil-beats-peru-4-0-to-move-into-1st-in-copa-america-group.html |title=Brazil beats Peru 4-0 to move into 1st in Copa America group |work=thestar.com |date=17 June 2021 |access-date=19 June 2021 |archive-date=27 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210627212448/https://www.thestar.com/sports/soccer/2021/06/17/brazil-beats-peru-4-0-to-move-into-1st-in-copa-america-group.html |url-status=live }} On 23 June he assisted Casemiro's match–winning goal from a corner in injury time of a 2–1 win over Colombia.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57592206 |title=Casemiro gives Brazil controversial win |work=BBC Sport |date=24 June 2021 |access-date=24 June 2021 |archive-date=25 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625170010/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57592206 |url-status=live }} On 2 July, he assisted Lucas Paquetá's goal in a 1–0 win over Chile in the quarter-finals of the competition.{{cite web |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12347711/copa-america-quarter-finals-brazil-edge-chile-peru-see-off-paraguay-on-penalties-in-thriller |title=Copa America quarter-finals: Brazil edge Chile, Peru see off Paraguay on penalties in thriller |publisher=Sky Sports |date=3 July 2021 |access-date=4 July 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709182956/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12347711/copa-america-quarter-finals-brazil-edge-chile-peru-see-off-paraguay-on-penalties-in-thriller |url-status=live }} Three days later, he once again assisted Paquetá for the only goal of the match in the semi-finals against Peru.{{cite web |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/article/brazil-shuts-peru-reach-final-copa-america/ |title=Brazil shuts out Peru to reach final of Copa America |publisher=www.sportsnet.ca |date=5 July 2021 |access-date=6 July 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185149/https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/article/brazil-shuts-peru-reach-final-copa-america/ |url-status=live }} On 10 July, Brazil were defeated 1–0 by Argentina in the final.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2021/jul/10/argentina-v-brazil-copa-america-final-live |title=Argentina 1-0 Brazil: Copa América final – live! |work=The Guardian |last1=Graham |first1=Bryan Armen |date=11 July 2021 |access-date=11 July 2021 |archive-date=14 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221114190003/https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2021/jul/10/argentina-v-brazil-copa-america-final-live |url-status=live }} Despite the loss, Neymar was named the player of the tournament alongside Argentina's Messi for his performances throughout the competition.{{Cite web|title=Leo Messi named player of tournament in Copa América|url=https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/football/first-team/news/2187432/leo-messi-named-player-of-tournament-in-copa-america|access-date=11 July 2021|website=www.fcbarcelona.com|language=en|archive-date=21 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021073241/https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/football/first-team/news/2187432/leo-messi-named-player-of-tournament-in-copa-america|url-status=live}}

On 9 September 2021, Neymar scored the second goal in a 2–0 win over Peru and became Brazil's all-time top scorer in FIFA World Cup qualification matches, with 12 in total.{{Cite web|title=Neymar marca, passa Romário e Zico e se torna maior artilheiro da Seleção nas Eliminatórias|trans-title=Neymar scores, surpasses Romário and Zico and becomes Brazil's top scorer in qualifiers|url=https://ge.globo.com/futebol/selecao-brasileira/noticia/neymar-marca-passa-zico-e-romario-e-se-torna-maior-artilheiro-da-selecao-nas-eliminatorias.ghtml|access-date=9 September 2021|website=ge.globo.com|date=9 September 2021 |language=pt-br|archive-date=10 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210910020622/https://ge.globo.com/futebol/selecao-brasileira/noticia/neymar-marca-passa-zico-e-romario-e-se-torna-maior-artilheiro-da-selecao-nas-eliminatorias.ghtml|url-status=live}}

File:Brazil vs Serbia World Cup 2022 match Brazil line-up.jpg.{{Cite web |last=Quaile |first=Kieran |date=2022-10-07 |title=Neymar on top of his game ahead of World Cup |url=https://en.as.com/soccer/neymar-on-top-of-his-game-ahead-of-world-cup-n/ |access-date=2024-10-20 |website=AS USA |language=en-us}}]]

On 7 November 2022, Neymar was named in the Brazil squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.{{cite web|title=Seleção Brasileira está convocada para a Copa do Mundo FIFA Qatar 2022|url=https://www.cbf.com.br/selecao-brasileira/noticias/selecao-masculina/selecao-brasileira-esta-convocada-para-a-copa-do-mundo-fifa-qatar-2022|publisher=CBF|access-date=7 November 2022|date=7 November 2022|language=pt|archive-date=7 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107162158/https://www.cbf.com.br/selecao-brasileira/noticias/selecao-masculina/selecao-brasileira-esta-convocada-para-a-copa-do-mundo-fifa-qatar-2022|url-status=live}} Heading into the World Cup, Neymar was arguably in the best form of his career during the 2022–23 season, scoring 15 goals and providing 11 assists in just 20 games.{{Cite web |last=AlBaharna |first=Maram |date=2022-11-24 |title=Why Brazil Are Favourites to Win the World Cup |url=https://theanalyst.com/eu/2022/11/brazil-world-cup-favourites-2022#:~:text=Now,%20more%20than%20ever,%20he,the%202022%20Qatar%20World%20Cup. |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=Opta Analyst |language=en}} According to Maram Albaharna and several other sports journalists, he was a large part of the reason why Brazil were favourites to win the World Cup.{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}}{{Cite web |date=2022-11-23 |title=Neymar has Pele's Brazil record in sight, Portugal fend off Ronaldo drama: World Cup daily |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/37634205/2022-world-cup-neymar-eyes-pele-brazil-goals-record-portugal-kick-things-ronaldo-drama-swirls |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}

Neymar played 79 minutes of Brazil's first match on 24 November, a 2–0 win against Serbia, but was unable to play the next two group games due to ankle ligament damage.{{Cite news |last=Summerscales |first=Robert |title=Neymar Will Not Play Again During World Cup Group Stage After Scan Finds Ankle Ligament Damage |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/soccer/futbol/news/neymar-will-not-play-again-in-world-cup-group-stage-due-to-injury |access-date=28 November 2022 |website=Futbol on FanNation |language=en |archive-date=5 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205075854/https://www.si.com/fannation/soccer/futbol/news/neymar-will-not-play-again-in-world-cup-group-stage-due-to-injury |url-status=live }} Neymar recovered from his injury to play against South Korea in the last 16 on 5 December, where he assisted Vinícius Júnior's opening goal and scored a penalty in a 4–1 win for Brazil;{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/63777438 |title=Dazzling Brazil dismantle South Korea in last 16 |publisher=BBC |date=5 December 2022 |access-date=5 December 2022 |archive-date=6 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221206042327/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/63777438 |url-status=live }} as a result, he became only the third Brazilian player ever, after Pelé and Ronaldo, to score in three different World Cups.{{cite news |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/neymar-ties-pele-s-scoring-record-but-loses-again-at-world-cup-1.6188152 |title=Neymar ties Pele's scoring record but loses again at World Cup |work=CTVNews |date=9 December 2022 |access-date=17 December 2022 |archive-date=17 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221217183410/https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/neymar-ties-pele-s-scoring-record-but-loses-again-at-world-cup-1.6188152 |url-status=live }} Four days later, in the quarter-final match against Croatia, Neymar scored his 77th international goal and equalled Pelé's official goal tally for the national team, a goal which journalist Michael Cox described as one of the "greatest individual goals in football history".{{Cite news |last=Cox |first=Michael |title=Neymar, record breaker: one of football's true greats |url=https://theathletic.com/4838524/2023/09/09/neymar-pele-brazil/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=The Athletic |language=en |archive-date=28 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028130501/https://theathletic.com/4838524/2023/09/09/neymar-pele-brazil/ |url-status=live }} Brazil, however, suffered a shock defeat, losing 4–2 in the ensuing penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw after extra time, before Neymar was able to take Brazil's final penalty.{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37634729/neymar-ties-pele-goal-scoring-record-brazil-wc-penalty-shootout-loss-croatia |title=Neymar unsure if he'll play for Brazil again after tying Pele scoring record in loss to Croatia |publisher=ESPN |date=9 December 2022 |access-date=9 December 2022 |archive-date=9 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209185914/https://www.espn.com/soccer/brazil-bra/story/4829339/neymar-ties-pele-goal-scoring-record-in-brazil-wc-penalty-shootout-loss-to-croatia |url-status=live }} Neymar was distraught on the pitch; overwhelmed with emotion, he hinted that it could be his last game for Brazil.{{Cite web |date=2022-12-09 |title=Neymar: I don't know if I'll play for Brazil again |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/37634729/neymar-ties-pele-goal-scoring-record-brazil-wc-penalty-shootout-loss-croatia |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} In a later social media post, he said that the defeat to Croatia “psychologically destroyed” him and that it was the defeat that had affected him the most in his career, causing him to be "paralysed" for 10 minutes after the match.{{Cite web |last=Geiger |first=Dorian |title=Neymar says ‘psychologically destroyed’ by Croatia World Cup loss |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/12/11/neymar-psychologically-destroyed-by-word-cup-exit |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}}

{{Quote box

|quote ='Keep inspiring us. I will keep punching the air with joy for every goal you score'

|source = — Pelé congratulates Neymar on equalling his record of 77 official international goals.{{cite web |title= Pele Instagram |url= https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl9psOVuwDL/ |website= Instagram |date= 9 December 2022 |access-date= 2 January 2023 |archive-date= 22 July 2024 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/instagram/pele/2989729086604771531 |url-status= live }}

|width = 27%

|align = left

|qalign = center}}On 8 September 2023, Neymar scored twice for Brazil in a 5–1 win over Bolivia in their opening match for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification. His 78th and 79th goals in his 125th appearance for Brazil, Neymar became the national team's top goalscorer ahead of Pelé.{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2023/09/09/sport/neymar-breaks-pele-scoring-record-spt-intl/index.html |title=Neymar Jr. breaks Pelé's all-time scoring record for Brazil |publisher=CNN |date=9 September 2023 |access-date=9 September 2023 |archive-date=9 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230909162549/https://edition.cnn.com/2023/09/09/sport/neymar-breaks-pele-scoring-record-spt-intl/index.html |url-status=live }} Mimicking Pelé's punch in the air goal celebration with the first of his two goals, Neymar stated after the game that he never imagined he would reach the record.{{cite news |title=Neymar overtakes Pele as Brazil's leading male goalscorer: 'I never imagined reaching this record' |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/neymar-overtakes-pele-as-brazils-leading-male-goalscorer-i-have-never-imagined-reaching-this-record_sto9788302/story.shtml |access-date=13 September 2023 |publisher=TNT Sports |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030213611/https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Neymar passes Pelé as Brazil's all-time men's top goal-scorer |url=https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/neymar-passes-pele-as-brazils-all-time-mens-top-goal-scorer-043316115.html |access-date=14 September 2023 |publisher=Yahoo Sports |archive-date=9 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230909090611/https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/neymar-passes-pele-as-brazils-all-time-mens-top-goal-scorer-043316115.html |url-status=live }} A month later, Neymar tied former American player Landon Donovan on achieving a record 58 assists in international football; in the 50th minute of Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Venezuela, his corner kick was headed in by defender Gabriel.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-13 |title=Neymar Ties International Assists Record Set By Landon Donovan |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/soccer/futbol/news/neymar-ties-international-assists-record-set-by-landon-donovan |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=Fannation Futbol |language=en-US}}

On 17 October, in Brazil's 2–0 qualifying defeat to Uruguay, Neymar was taken off in tears on a stretcher at the end of the first half, following an awkward landing after a challenge. Neymar would confirm later that week that he had ruptured his ACL and meniscus completely in his left knee and would need to undergo surgery, likely ruling him out for the remainder of the 2023–24 campaign; consequently, he was left out of Brazil's squad for the 2024 Copa América.{{cite news |url=https://en.as.com/soccer/why-isnt-neymar-jr-playing-the-copa-america-2024-for-brazil-n/ |title=Why isn't Neymar Jr. playing the Copa América 2024 for Brazil? |work=Diario AS |last1=Cons |first1=Roddy |language=en-us |date=19 June 2024 |access-date=22 June 2024 }}

On 2 March 2025, Neymar was named in the 29 men in the preliminary squad for the national team.

Primarily playing as a winger or attacking midfielder, Neymar is prolific in scoring and has high-level playmaking abilities.{{cite web |last1=Cox |first1=Michael |date=17 March 2016 |title=Michael Cox: How Neymar's development is continuing to mirror Messi's |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/us/features/michael-cox-how-neymars-development-continuing-mirror-messis |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627212333/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/us/features/michael-cox-how-neymars-development-continuing-mirror-messis |archive-date=27 June 2020 |access-date=27 June 2020 |publisher=FourFourTwo.com}} He often plays as a left winger for both club and country in the team's 4–3–3 formation due to his pace and playmaking skills; this position allows him to shoot with his stronger foot and create chances for teammates.{{cite web |author1=Francesco Letizia |date=17 March 2009 |title=Neymar, la clonazione è permessa |url=http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/il-volto-nuovo/neymar-la-clonazione-e-permessa-143807 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927035849/http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/il-volto-nuovo/neymar-la-clonazione-e-permessa-143807 |archive-date=27 September 2015 |access-date=15 June 2015 |work=Tutto Mercato |language=it}} Neymar's dribbling skills and playmaking ability have been described as reminiscent of Brazilian compatriot Ronaldinho. His main traits are his vision, passing, finishing, dribbling, feints, and first touch, being described as both "electric" and "explosive",{{cite news |date=13 July 2012 |title=Brazil star Neymar goes green this summer |url=http://finchannel.com/Main_News/Business/112784_Brazil_star_Neymar_goes_green_this_summer/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130123112358/http://finchannel.com/Main_News/Business/112784_Brazil_star_Neymar_goes_green_this_summer/ |archive-date=23 January 2013 |access-date=13 July 2012 |publisher=Financial}}{{cite web |author1=Graham Hunter |date=24 January 2017 |title=Luis Suarez at 30: Barcelona has made him better, and he's made Barca better |url=http://www.espn.co.uk/football/spanish-primera-division/15/blog/post/3045359/luis-suarez-turns-30-and-has-gone-from-strength-to-strength-since-joining-barcelona |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170126123711/http://www.espn.co.uk/football/spanish-primera-division/15/blog/post/3045359/luis-suarez-turns-30-and-has-gone-from-strength-to-strength-since-joining-barcelona |archive-date=26 January 2017 |access-date=2 August 2017 |work=ESPN FC}}{{cite web |last1=Webb |first1=Tom |date=30 December 2015 |title=Neymar Shows Off Outrageous Control as Barcelona Beat Real Betis |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2603806-neymar-shows-off-outrageous-control-as-barcelona-beat-real-betis |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627212003/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2603806-neymar-shows-off-outrageous-control-as-barcelona-beat-real-betis |archive-date=27 June 2020 |access-date=27 June 2020 |publisher=Bleacher Report}} and is known for using the rainbow flick.{{cite news |date=23 December 2014 |title=Neymar pulls off ridiculous spinning rainbow flick to score in charity match |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/leftfield/video-neymar-pulls-off-ridiculous-spinning-rainbow-flick-to-score-in-charity-match-30858750.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141223175828/http://www.independent.ie/sport/leftfield/video-neymar-pulls-off-ridiculous-spinning-rainbow-flick-to-score-in-charity-match-30858750.html |archive-date=23 December 2014 |access-date=14 January 2021 |work=Independent}} He is two-footed and can score free-kicks and penalties.{{cite web |author1=Massimo Tanzillo |date=15 January 2011 |title=NEYMAR: 1992 – BRASILE |url=http://www.generazioneditalenti.it/neymar-1992-brasile/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924021451/http://www.generazioneditalenti.it/neymar-1992-brasile/ |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=15 June 2015 |publisher=Generazione Talenti |language=it}} Neymar stated: "I'm always trying to perfect everything – dribbling, shooting, headers and control. You can always improve".{{cite news |date=1 March 2012 |title=Work and play – Brazil's samba star Neymar has it all |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2012/03/01/sport/football/football-neymar-santos-brazil/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409170138/http://edition.cnn.com/2012/03/01/sport/football/football-neymar-santos-brazil/index.html |archive-date=9 April 2012 |publisher=CNN}}File:Neymar attacking (5575090925).jpg in 2011. Early in his career, he was often compared to compatriots Pelé and Ronaldinho.]]

According to Westwood of Goal, "[Neymar] is a master dribbler, and he sees openings that other players don't. He can create chances out of nothing and more often than not, has the finishing touch or decisive final pass to match his ingenuity on the ball."{{Cite web |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar threw away his chance to become a Barcelona great! Saudi Arabia transfer the only option after world-record failure at PSG {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120171638/https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |archive-date=20 November 2023 |access-date=20 November 2023 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}} In similar observation, Bobby Ghosh of Time magazine details Neymar's style of play: "He’s a player whose ability to change speed and direction is augmented by astonishing ball skills [...] In an era of pass-and-move, Neymar is not afraid to keep the ball, dribble and weave past his opponents rather than simply figure out the most effective way of moving it forward."{{Cite web |last=Paulo |first=Bobby Ghosh / São |date=2013-03-04 |title=Game Changer: Why Is Soccer Superstar Neymar Still Playing in Brazil? |url=https://time.com/archive/6643189/game-changer-why-is-soccer-superstar-neymar-still-playing-in-brazil/ |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=TIME |language=en}} Former Santos player Lima, of the Os Santásticos era, claimed that “Neymar has something that even Pelé doesn’t, the speed of his feet and the way he can move the ball.”{{Cite web |last=Herbert |first=Ian |date=17 June 2014 |title=World Cup 2014: Is Neymar as good as Pele? |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/world-cup-2014-is-neymar-as-good-as-pele-9541857.html |website=The Independent}}

Considered to be a highly promising player in his youth,{{cite web |last1=Daniels |first1=Tim |date=25 May 2013 |title=Neymar to Barcelona: Barca Officially Signs Brazilian Star |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1649197-neymar-to-barcelona-barca-reportedly-signs-brazilian-star |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111180953/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1649197-neymar-to-barcelona-barca-reportedly-signs-brazilian-star |archive-date=11 November 2020 |access-date=27 June 2020 |publisher=Bleacher Report}} Neymar was described early in his career by the media as "a true phenomenon".{{cite news |date=12 July 2012 |title=Messi better than Neymar, says Dani Alves |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3277/la-liga/2012/07/12/3237559/messi-better-than-neymar-says-dani-alves |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120716031159/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3277/la-liga/2012/07/12/3237559/messi-better-than-neymar-says-dani-alves |archive-date=16 July 2012 |access-date=12 July 2012 |work=Goal.com}} After joining Barcelona, his performances led to him often being labelled the third-best player in the world, behind Messi and Ronaldo;{{Cite web |last=Pettigrove |first=Jason |date=11 March 2015 |title=Why Neymar Is the 3rd-Best Player in the World on Current Form |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2387319-why-neymar-is-the-third-best-player-in-the-world-on-current-form |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315033631/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2387319-why-neymar-is-the-third-best-player-in-the-world-on-current-form |archive-date=15 March 2015 |access-date=15 January 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}}*{{cite news |date=14 November 2021 |title=Neymar is technically better than Messi & Ronaldo - Cafu |url=https://www.goal.com/en-my/news/neymar-is-technically-better-than-messi-ronaldo-cafu/bltc2953d1076ccea65 |access-date=15 November 2021 |newspaper=Goal}}

• {{cite news |date=31 January 2021 |title='PSG Star Neymar Is The Best Player In The World Ahead Of Lionel Messi And Cristiano Ronaldo' |url=https://www.sportbible.com/football/news-neymar-is-the-best-player-in-the-world-ahead-of-messi-and-ronaldo-20210131 |access-date=7 November 2021 |newspaper=SPORTbible}}
• {{cite web |date=29 January 2021 |title=Neymar is Currently the Best Player in the World; He Plays More Balls Than Ronaldo and Messi - Caio Ribeiro |url=https://www.90min.com/in/posts/neymar-is-currently-the-best-player-in-the-world-he-plays-more-balls-than-ronaldo-and-messi-caio-ribeiro |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107142929/https://www.90min.com/in/posts/neymar-is-currently-the-best-player-in-the-world-he-plays-more-balls-than-ronaldo-and-messi-caio-ribeiro |archive-date=7 November 2021 |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=90min}}
• {{cite web |date=10 December 2020 |title=Neymar Is Finally The Best Player In The World |url=https://defector.com/neymar-is-finally-the-best-player-in-the-world/ |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Defector Media}}
• {{cite web |date=12 November 2020 |title=Neymar: The fourth-best player in 2019-20 or a master of deception? |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/neymar-fourth-best-player-2019-20-or-master-of-deception/o8mkp1u2b4sz1qr3z56h92idg |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Goal.com}}
• {{cite web |date=19 August 2020 |title=Neymar is the most decisive player in the world |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2020/08/19/5f3c54a2268e3e9f428b4584.html |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Marca}}
• {{cite news |date=24 April 2020 |title=Nenê: 'Neymar the best in the world |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/NEWS/2020/04/24/nene-neymar-the-best-in-the-world-psg-monaco-barcelona |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Ligue 1}}
• {{cite web |date=10 March 2017 |title=Rio Ferdinand: This player will replace Barcelona's Lionel Messi as the world No1 |url=https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/777379/Rio-Ferdinand-Neymar-Worlds-Best-Players-Barcelona-Lionel-Messi |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Daily Express}}
• {{cite web |date=11 March 2015 |title=Why Neymar Is the 3rd-Best Player in the World on Current Form |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2387319-why-neymar-is-the-third-best-player-in-the-world-on-current-form |access-date=7 November 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}}{{Cite web |date=2025-05-31 |title=The Great Debate: Who is the third best player in the world? |url=https://onefootball.com/en/news/the-great-debate-who-is-the-third-best-player-in-the-world-25004221 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=OneFootball |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=5 players who were third best players in the world sometime in the last decade{{!}} All Football |url=https://m.allfootballapp.com/news/All/5-players-who-were-third-best-players-in-the-world-sometime-in-the-last-decade/2801393 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=AllfootballOfficial |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Pettigrove |first=Jason |title=Why Neymar Is the 3rd-Best Player in the World on Current Form |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2387319-why-neymar-is-the-third-best-player-in-the-world-on-current-form |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=bleacherreport.com |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Betts |first=Eric |date=2017-08-04 |title=Big Money, Pretty Big Star |url=https://slate.com/culture/2017/08/will-neymar-ever-overtake-messi-and-ronaldo-as-the-worlds-greatest-soccer-player.html |access-date=2025-05-31 |work=Slate |language=en-US |issn=1091-2339}} at various points in his career, he was argued by some to be the best player in the world.{{Cite news |date=2015-11-19 |title=Neymar, Messi, Ronaldo: Is Brazilian now world's best player? |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/34835193 |access-date=2025-05-31 |work=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=TNT Sports is not available in your region |url=https://www.tntsports.co.uk/geoblocking.shtml |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=www.tntsports.co.uk}}{{Cite news |date=13 August 2020 |title=Neymar: Is he now the best player in the world? |url=https://www.bbc.com/newsround/53736391 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209183253/https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/53736391 |archive-date=9 February 2024 |access-date=15 November 2023 |work=BBC Newsround |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=18 August 2020 |title=Neymar is the most decisive player in the world |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2020/08/19/5f3c54a2268e3e9f428b4584.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819041802/https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2020/08/19/5f3c54a2268e3e9f428b4584.html |archive-date=19 August 2020 |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=MARCA in English |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Haisley |first=Billy |date=10 December 2020 |title=Neymar Is Finally The Best Player In The World |url=https://defector.com/neymar-is-finally-the-best-player-in-the-world/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210205924/https://defector.com/neymar-is-finally-the-best-player-in-the-world/ |archive-date=10 December 2020 |access-date=15 January 2021 |website=Defector}} He is also widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation, the best Brazilian player of his generation, and one of the greatest wingers ever.{{Cite web |last=Mitton |first=Alex |date=2024-08-19 |title=The 10 greatest wingers in football history have been named and ranked |url=https://www.givemesport.com/football-soccer-greatest-wingers-ever-ranked/ |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=GiveMeSport |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=published |first=Ben Hayward |date=2023-11-28 |title=Best wingers in football history |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/best-wingers-in-football-history |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=FourFourTwo |language=en}}{{cite web |title=Who is the best Brazilian footballer of all time? Pele, Ronaldo and top 20 in history |url=https://www.goal.com/en-cm/lists/ronaldo-pele-neymar-and-top-20-brazilian-footballers-in-history/lp660z0dfzlw1n008mykjwf7y |access-date=2 February 2023 |website=Goal.com}}{{cite web |date=25 June 2019 |title=Ranking The Top 30 Brazilian Soccer Players |url=https://sportscroll.com/ranking-the-top-30-brazilian-soccer-players/ |access-date=2 February 2023 |website=Sport Scroll}}{{Cite web |date=2025-01-20 |title=Neymar's Top 10 Goals of His Career So Far |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/neymar-s-10-best-goals-of-his-career-so-far |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=SI |language=en-US}} He scored 105 goals and assisted 76 in 186 appearances for Barcelona, only trailing Rivaldo as the most prolific Brazilian for Barcelona.{{Cite web |last=published |first=FourFourTwo Staff |date=2017-08-02 |title=105 goals, 41 MSN assists - Opta breakdown of Neymar's Barcelona career |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/105-goals-41-msn-assists-opta-breakdown-neymars-barcelona-career |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=FourFourTwo |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2023-08-15 |title=Neymar threw away his chance to become a Barcelona great! Saudi Arabia transfer the only option after world-record failure at PSG {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}} With PSG, he stands as the fourth-highest-goalscorer of all time with 118 and fifth-highest-assister of all time with 77.{{Cite news |date=20 May 2017 |title=Le classement historique des buteurs du PSG |url=https://histoiredupsg.fr/classement-historique-buteurs-psg |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170922051221/https://histoiredupsg.fr/classement-historique-buteurs-psg |archive-date=22 September 2017 |accessdate=4 July 2017 |work=Histoire du PSG}} At international level, he is tied for the most assists for any international level player (58).

Writing in 2022, Jonathan Wilson of Sports Illustrated summarised Neymar's significance in football:

"As a great who has been burdened by his talent, plucked at by those expectations of his homeland and the demands of celebrity; someone who has been indulged almost since he first became a footballer; someone whose transfers torpedoed Barcelona and initiated the boom-and-bust cycle of the past four years, it is Neymar, more than anybody else who embodies the age."{{Cite web |date=2022-02-04 |title=How Neymar Has Come to Embody Soccer's Modern Age |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2022/02/04/neymar-30-career-expectations-brazil-world-cup-psg-champions-league |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=SI |language=en-US}}

File:Training Brazilian national team before the match against Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2014-06-11.jpg

in light of becoming Brazil's all-time top goalscorer, Cox of The Athletic lauded Neymar as one of football's true greats and asserted that he should be remembered as "one of the best the game has seen".{{Cite news |last=Cox |first=Michael |title=Neymar, record breaker: one of football's true greats |url=https://theathletic.com/4838524/2023/09/09/neymar-pele-brazil/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=The Athletic |language=en}} Brazil coach Fernando Diniz declared that Neymar is one of the greatest players in history.{{Cite web |date=17 October 2023 |title=Brazil boss on Neymar: One of greatest in history |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/38677399/brazil-coach-defends-neymar-one-greatest-history |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} In FourFourTwo's 50 most influential footballers of all time list, the publication says of Neymar, "On the pitch, his showmanship and technical ability have elevated him to conversations of him being as good as Messi and Ronaldo."{{Cite web |last=published |first=Mark White |date=2023-12-25 |title=FourFourTwo's 50 most influential footballers of all time |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/50-of-the-most-influential-footballers-of-all-time |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=FourFourTwo |language=en}} Lawrence Ostlere of The Independent opinionated that Messi was the only player superior in "every facet of the game" than Neymar during his 10-year tenure in Europe.{{Cite web |date=18 August 2023 |title=Farewell to Neymar, a European career played out in Lionel Messi's shadow |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/neymar-jr-al-hilal-contract-messi-b2395495.html |access-date=23 November 2023 |website=The Independent |language=en}}

In a ranking of the "best South American players of the 21st century so far", Tom Hindle of Goal ranked Neymar at third place, only trailing Ronaldinho and Messi.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-14 |title=Lionel Messi, Neymar and the 25 best South American players of the 21st century so far - ranked {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/best-south-american-players-21st-century-ranked/blt09835f819d551c38 |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} Hindle claimed that at Neymar's best form, there are a few players better than him. Hindle also credits Neymar as among the most talented players ever, also claiming that he had the potential to be a "top five player" of all time.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-14 |title=Lionel Messi, Neymar and the 25 best South American players of the 21st century so far - ranked {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/best-south-american-players-21st-century-ranked/blt09835f819d551c38#cse44e5454950b5a56 |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} In similar praise, GiveMeSport calls Neymar "one of the most entertaining and talented players of all time".{{Cite web |last=Churchill |first=Max |date=2024-09-15 |title=10 Greatest Players in Ligue 1 History [Ranked] |url=https://www.givemesport.com/greatest-players-ligue-1-france-football-history-ranked/ |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=GiveMeSport |language=en}} In the view of the same article, highlighting the dominance of Messi and Ronaldo, Neymar "might be one of the unluckiest players of all time. If he shone in another era, he might be considered the best Brazilian player of all time". In 2019, Neymar was named the best Brazilian player post-Pelé by the Brazilian monthly sports magazine Placar.{{Cite web |date=2019-02-22 |title=Neymar dismisses Pele talk after poll snub |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37570033/brazil-neymar-says-post-pele-debate-makes-no-sense-not-making-top-10-espn-brasil-poll |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} According to Sports Illustrated, Neymar could end his career as the best player never to win a Ballon d'Or or World Cup.{{Cite magazine |date=30 September 2019 |title=Neymar Jr: Brazil's Generational Talent Who Dictated the Greatest Champions League Night in History |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2019/09/30/neymar-jr-brazils-generational-talent-who-dictated-greatest-champions-league-night-history |access-date=28 October 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}} The same publication included Neymar in its list of the 55 greatest players of all time, remarking that he arguably eclipsed Ronaldo as the second-best player in the world during his years at Barcelona.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-18 |title=The 50 Greatest Soccer Players of All Time |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/the-50-greatest-soccer-players-of-all-time |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=SI |language=en-US}} ESPN included Neymar in its list of "the 20 best soccer players of the 21st century", though controversially placed him at 20th.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-23 |title=Surprising: ESPN snubs Neymar, Mbappe as 3rd best player of the century behind Messi, Ronaldo |url=https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/not-neymar-or-mbappe-espn-names-3rd-best-player-of-the-century-behind-messi-ronaldo |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=Bolavip US |language=en-US}}

Neymar has also drawn praise by numerous top level players. In 2025, former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe claimed that Neymar should have dominated the Ballon d’Or from 2017 onwards.{{Cite web |last=Pandit |first=Deepungsu |date=2025-02-27 |title="Should’ve cleaned out the Ballon d’Or from 2017 onwards" - Ex-Manchester United star hails Neymar Jr, makes bold claim |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/news-should-ve-cleaned-ballon-d-or-2017-onwards-ex-manchester-united-star-hails-neymar-jr-makes-bold-claim |access-date=2025-05-23 |website=www.sportskeeda.com |language=en-gb}} Several players declared that Neymar is the toughest opponent they have faced in their career; this includes Kyle Walker, João Cancelo, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Dani Carvajal.{{Cite web |date=2020-08-28 |title=Real Madrid's Carvajal names Neymar as his toughest opponent and reveals Zidane's 'greatest virtue' {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/real-madrid-carvajal-neymar-toughest-opponent-zidane-greatest-virtue/w64h8zojxzpo1pfb1aminf6h2 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=Wan-Bissaka says Neymar is the toughest opponent he has faced{{!}} All Football |url=https://m.allfootballapp.com/news/All/Wan-Bissaka-says-Neymar-is-the-toughest-opponent-he-has-faced/2573111 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=AllfootballOfficial |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Wan-Bissaka says Neymar is the toughest opponent he has faced{{!}} All Football |url=https://m.allfootballapp.com/news/All/Wan-Bissaka-says-Neymar-is-the-toughest-opponent-he-has-faced/2573111 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=AllfootballOfficial |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Livesey |first=Andrew |date=2023-12-29 |title=Mbappe or Neymar? Joao Cancelo names most dangerous opponent he's ever played against |url=https://tribuna.com/en/news/fcbarcelona-2023-12-29-mbappe-or-neymar-joao-cancelo-names-most-dangerous-opponent-hes-ever-played-against/ |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=Tribuna.com}}{{Cite web |last=Sadhanand |first=Srinivas |date=2024-05-29 |title=Kyle Walker names the two best players he has ever faced |url=https://www.manchestercity.news/kyle-walker-names-the-two-best-players-he-has-ever-faced-in-his-career-neymar-hazard/ |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=Manchester City News |language=en-GB}} Rodrigo De Paul stated that Neymar "in the Copa América final [in 2021] was the toughest opponent I faced", calling him a "phenomenon".{{Cite web |title=De Paul: Neymar in the Copa América final was the toughest opponent I faced{{!}} All Football |url=https://m.allfootballapp.com/news/La-Liga/De-Paul-Neymar-in-the-Copa-Am%C3%A9rica-final-was-the-toughest-opponent-I-faced/3402016 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=AllfootballOfficial |language=en}} In 2021, Phil Foden said that Neymar was the toughest opponent that he faced during the 2020-21 season.{{Cite web |last=Zavala |first=Steve |date=2021-05-21 |title=Manchester City Midfielder Foden Details What Is Most Difficult About Facing Neymar |url=https://psgtalk.com/2021/05/manchester-city-midfielder-foden-details-what-is-most-difficult-about-facing-neymar/ |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=PSG Talk |language=en}} Of high praise, he said, “I was a bit star-struck at times. [...] He’s unbelievable what he does every game, he decides the game on his own sometimes. One of the best players in the world." Maxime Lopez, who played for Marseille against PSG, hailed Neymar as the best player that he has faced, calling him "a genius" and claiming that only Messi is more talented than him.{{Cite web |last=read |first=PSG Talk·2 min |date=2024-10-11 |title=Neymar Over Messi? Ex-OM Player Highlights What Made Brazilian Special at PSG |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/neymar-over-messi-ex-om-085100624.html |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-US}}

Former midfielder David Beckham praised Neymar as an "outstanding talent, a once-in-a-generation type of footballer who has fans on their feet whenever he gets the ball."{{Cite web |date=2017-04-24 |title=TIME 100: David Beckham pens tribute to Neymar |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/04/24/david-beckham-neymar-time-100 |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=SI |language=en-US}} In 2018, Maradona claimed that the gap between Messi and Neymar is the same as between himself and Pelé.{{Cite web |last=Patterson |first=Mark |title=Diego Maradona: The Gap Between Messi and Neymar the Same as Between Me and Pele |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2093723-diego-maradona-the-gap-between-messi-and-neymar-the-same-as-between-me-and-pele |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=bleacherreport.com |language=en}} In a 2024 interview with Corriere della Sera, former legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon expressed that Neymar should have won at least five Ballon d'Or awards.{{Cite web |last=description! |first=beIN SPORTS |title=“Neymar Should Have Won 5 Ballon d’Ors,” Says Gianluigi Buffon |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/-neymar-should-have-won-5-ballon-d-ors-says-gianluigi-buffon-2024-11-19 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=beIN SPORTS |language=en-us}} In the same interview, Buffon picked Neymar over the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo (Brazilian), Messi, Ronaldo, and Iniesta as the best player he has ever witnessed during his playing career, also praising Neymar as more talented than Messi and Ronaldo.{{Cite web |last=description! |first=beIN SPORTS |title=“Neymar Should Have Won 5 Ballon d’Ors,” Says Gianluigi Buffon |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/-neymar-should-have-won-5-ballon-d-ors-says-gianluigi-buffon-2024-11-19 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=beIN SPORTS |language=en-us}}

NBA star Stephen Curry gave his view on Neymar when he was invited to a PSG match in 2017: "Every time he's on the pitch, you know something is going to happen. There are plenty of similarities between the way he plays and the way I play."{{Cite web |date=2017-08-25 |title=PSG introduce another costly star: Steph Curry |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/37480831/steph-curry-takes-part-ceremonial-first-kick-psg-game |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} In 2025, Jimmy Butler, also an NBA player and a friend of Neymar, opted to take the No. 10 as his new jersey number in tribute to the likes of Neymar following his trade to the Golden State Warriors.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-10 |title='Joining the 10s' - Jimmy Butler dons No. 10 for Golden State Warriors, pays homage to Lionel Messi, Neymar, Ronaldinho among other soccer legends {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/joining-the-10s-jimmy-butler-dons-no-10-for-golden-state-warriors-lionel-messi-neymar-ronaldinho/bltfaf269735e8708e8 |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}

File:Neymar FCBarcelona.JPGMany players of the new era of football have singled out Neymar's influence. At the start of his career, Jadon Sancho said that "sure, I do like [Lionel] Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo, but my favourite player and role model is Neymar".{{Cite web |date=2018-04-25 |title=Dortmund's Sancho: Neymar is my role model |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/37552235/neymar-my-role-model-favourite-player-borussia-dortmund-jadon-sancho |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} Mbappé expressed that his three main idols are Neymar, Ronaldo and Messi,{{Cite web |date=2020-04-29 |title='Ronaldo, Messi & Neymar are my idols' - Mbappe says superstar trio inspired him to reach the top {{!}} Goal.com South Africa |url=https://www.goal.com/en-za/news/ronaldo-messi-neymar-idols-mbappe-superstar-trio-inspired-him/1djkgwry7ohl613qgg47zuypb8 |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-ZA}} also calling Neymar a "unique player in the history of football".{{Cite web |date=2025-01-22 |title='I could talk many times about Neymar!' - Kylian Mbappe responds to Brazilian's claims he was 'jealous' of Lionel Messi at PSG {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/i-could-talk-many-times-about-neymar-kylian-mbappe-responds-to-brazilian-s-claims-he-was-jealous-of-lionel-messi-at-psg/bltaac218501702f20d |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} Rodrygo cites Neymar as a "sensational influence" on him and described him as "an absolute genius".{{Cite web |date=2021-03-19 |title=Rodrygo hails idol Neymar as 'an absolute genius' {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/rodrygo-hails-idol-neymar-as-an-absolute-genius/im0x6ckf84qa1w4h4j8zm268z |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} Young talent Lamine Yamal spoke highly of him in 2025: "Neymar has always been my idol. He’s a star, a football legend."{{Cite web |date=2025-01-08 |title=Lamine Yamal snubs Lionel Messi for Neymar as Barcelona wonderkid explains why Brazilian 'legend' is his main idol {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/lamine-yamal-snubs-lionel-messi-neymar-explains-why-brazilian-legend-main-idol/bltaf66b054492828e4#cs931f6debb431e377 |access-date=2025-05-23 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}} In 2024, Yamal posted a photo on social media of him in a 2012 Santos jersey with Neymar's name and number 11.{{Cite web |date=2025-01-31 |title=Neymar signs for Santos: The prince who never became king at Barcelona or PSG |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c93q0vr1klxo |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} In the following year, he changed his hairstyle to blond and flat-down, which was widely noted for being inspired by Neymar's during the 2014 World Cup.{{Cite web |last=Ukpai |first=Kingsley |date=2025-01-06 |title=Lamine Yamal's new haircut is a nod to his favourite Barca legend — not Messi |url=https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/2025-01-06-lamine-yamals-new-haircut-is-a-nod-to-his-favouri/ |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=Tribuna.com}} PSG prospect Désiré Doué expressed his admiration for "his idol" Neymar,{{Cite web |date=2025-04-11 |title=PSG Young Talent Desire Doue Reveals His Idol Who Has Worn The Parisian Jersey |url=https://www.si.com/onsi/soccer/psg/news/psg-young-talent-desire-doue-reveals-his-idol-who-has-worn-the-parisian-jersey |access-date=2025-05-23 |website=PSG On SI |language=en-US}} saying that he "is someone who’s done a lot in the world of football, who inspired many young players."{{Cite web |last=Shkura |first=Olga |date=2025-05-12 |title='Neymar is someone who has done a lot': Desire Doue expresses admiration for his idol |url=https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-05-12-neymar-is-someone-who-has-done-a-lot-desire-doue-expresses-admiration-for-his-idol/ |access-date=2025-05-23 |website=Tribuna.com}} Jamal Musiala stated that Neymar was the footballer he watched the most growing up.{{Cite web |last=Wilks |first=Mitchell |date=2024-10-24 |title=6 fantastic footballers who have grown up idolising Neymar: Rodrygo, Musiala... |url=https://www.planetfootball.com/lists-and-rankings/6-fantastic-footballers-idolise-neymar-rashford-musiala-rodrygo |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=Planet Football |language=en}} Liverpool player Harvey Elliott idolised Neymar growing up, claiming that Neymar is "one of the best to ever play the game". Former PSG teammate Xavi Simons also called Neymar his idol and said that playing with him at the club was "a dream come true".{{Cite web |last=read |first=OneFootball·3 min |date=2025-05-27 |title=Neymar, funk and special braids: Xavi Simons on his ties to Brazil |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/neymar-funk-unique-braids-xavi-213300098.html |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-US}}

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| quote = "And so, circus Neymar arrived in Dortmund. The Brazilian's moods, histrionics, petulance, and goalscoring prowess were on view in every fascinating and exasperating detail."

| source = —Forbes on some of the traits associated with Neymar following a Champions League game for PSG against Borussia Dortmund, February 2020.{{Cite web|last=Kunti|first=Samindra|date=18 February 2020|title=Champions League: Petulant Neymar And PSG Toppled By Dortmund Prodigy Haaland|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/samindrakunti/2020/02/18/champions-league-petulant-neymar-and-psg-toppled-by-dortmund-prodigy-haaland/?sh=2148c8464419|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114163042/https://www.forbes.com/sites/samindrakunti/2020/02/18/champions-league-petulant-neymar-and-psg-toppled-by-dortmund-prodigy-haaland/?sh=e5cf0e544192|archive-date=14 January 2021|access-date=15 January 2021|website=Forbes}}

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}}Neymar has been known and criticized for his excessive diving{{cite web |date=5 July 2018 |title=Neymar and the Art of the Dive |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/05/sports/world-cup/neymar-brazil-diving.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210105020938/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/05/sports/world-cup/neymar-brazil-diving.html |archive-date=5 January 2021 |access-date=14 January 2021 |work=The New York Times}}{{cite web |date=5 July 2018 |title=Neymar can be the best in the world but he has to grow up first |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/03/neymar-best-in-the-world-grow-up-first |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109004730/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/03/neymar-best-in-the-world-grow-up-first |archive-date=9 November 2020 |access-date=14 January 2021 |work=The Guardian}}{{cite web |date=5 July 2018 |title=Neymar Dive in Mexico Game Enrages Twitter |url=https://bleacherreport.com/neymar-dive-in-mexico-game-enrages-twitter |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920205333/https://bleacherreport.com/neymar-dive-in-mexico-game-enrages-twitter |archive-date=20 September 2020 |access-date=14 January 2021 |work=Bleacher Report}}{{cite web |date=5 July 2018 |title=Neymar Theatrical Diving Is Already Corrupting The Youth |url=https://deadspin.com/neymars-theatrical-diving-is-already-corrupting-the-you-1827360733 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925174434/https://deadspin.com/neymars-theatrical-diving-is-already-corrupting-the-you-1827360733 |archive-date=25 September 2020 |access-date=14 January 2021 |work=Deadspin}} when tackled by another player. Brazilian legend Pelé has said, "[h]e is a player with a body that can't take a lot of hits. [...] A lot of times he will fall because he can't do anything else, but he was overdoing it." He continued: "Even when he is fouled, he can't make a spectacle out of it".{{cite news |date=23 June 2011 |title=Pele says he told young star Neymar to stop diving |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Pele-says-he-told-young-star-Neymar-to-stop-diving/articleshow/8957666.cms |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120821001847/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Pele-says-he-told-young-star-Neymar-to-stop-diving/articleshow/8957666.cms |archive-date=21 August 2012 |work=The Times of India}} During the 2018 World Cup, Neymar inspired on the "Neymar Challenge" on social media due to his dramatic dives.{{cite magazine |last1=Hoffman |first1=Ashley |title=The 'Neymar Challenge' Is Spreading Laughter Across the World |url=https://time.com/5333146/neymar-challenge/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128154835/https://time.com/5333146/neymar-challenge/ |archive-date=28 November 2020 |access-date=4 May 2019 |magazine=Time}}{{cite web |last1=Allison |first1=Alexis |title=Fans diving into Neymar Challenge in dramatic fashion |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/worldcup/fans-diving-into-neymar-challenge-dramatic-fashion-1.4737655 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109035758/https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/worldcup/fans-diving-into-neymar-challenge-dramatic-fashion-1.4737655 |archive-date=9 November 2020 |access-date=4 May 2019 |website=CBC Sports}} As the star player for Brazil and PSG, he was often the most targeted player on the field; in 2018, he was the most fouled player in the top five leagues.{{cite news |date=3 July 2018 |title=PSG's Neymar the most fouled player in Europe's top leagues |url=http://www.espn.co.uk/football/paris-saint-germain/story/3394387/psgs-neymar-the-most-fouled-player-in-europes-top-leagues |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109021613/https://www.espn.co.uk/football/paris-saint-germain/story/3394387/psgs-neymar-the-most-fouled-player-in-europes-top-leagues |archive-date=9 November 2020 |access-date=14 January 2021 |agency=ESPN}} A divisive figure in the sport, he has been accused of exaggerating injury, with Eric Cantona stating Neymar is a "great actor", comparing him to a wheeled suitcase: "you barely touch it, and it turns round and round for hours."{{cite web |date=30 June 2018 |title=Manchester United legend Eric Cantona issues Neymar warning |url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/man-united-eric-cantona-neymar-14849353 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025221116/https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/man-united-eric-cantona-neymar-14849353 |archive-date=25 October 2020 |access-date=14 January 2021 |website=Manchester Evening News |publisher=Eurosport}}{{cite web |last1=Stokes |first1=Aaron |date=2 July 2018 |title=Neymar: Brazil star BRUTALLY mocked again by former Man Utd star Eric Cantona |url=https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/982602/Neymar-Brazil-mocked-World-Cup-diving-Man-Utd-star-Eric-Cantona |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180703050642/https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/982602/Neymar-Brazil-mocked-World-Cup-diving-Man-Utd-star-Eric-Cantona |archive-date=3 July 2018 |access-date=2 July 2018 |work=The Daily Express}} In response to the criticism over his petulance and histrionics, Neymar starred in a commercial after the 2018 World Cup where he said that he wasn't able to control his frustrations, which contributed to his theatrics, and he promised to change for the better.{{Citation |last=Gillette Brasil |title=Um Novo Homem Todo Dia {{!}} Gillette & Neymar Jr. |date=29 July 2018 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJRjk0SGcqQ |access-date=31 July 2018}} Neymar has also been criticised for his lack of professional discipline, with his desire to party and play late-night poker games. In 2018, Pelé criticised Neymar: "It's difficult to defend Neymar for all the things he does besides playing football. I've been with him in Europe twice. We talked and I explained: 'The God of football gave you the gift. What you do complicates it'." In February 2023, the day after PSG lost to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, images of Neymar in a fast-food restaurant surfaced on social media. Neymar defended himself, saying "It's my life, I do what I want."

File:20180610_FIFA_Friendly_Match_Austria_vs._Brazil_Neymar_850_2056.jpg

Despite the high praise Neymar has received as a player throughout his career, his failure to win the Ballon d'Or and lead Brazil to a World Cup win, which were unanimous expectations of him at the start of his career, are often highlighted by the media.{{Cite news |title=Neymar - superstar with a legacy unfulfilled? |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/66505930 |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} Neymar has been nominated for the Ballon d'Or nine times, which is more than any other Brazilian player in history, and has finished in the top 10 six times. The term Neymardependencia (Neymar dependency) is often used in Brazil, referring to the extent to which the national team relies on him to guide their success.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-18 |title=Neymar dependência? Números da Seleção Brasileira pioram sem o camisa 10 |url=https://www.cnnbrasil.com.br/esportes/futebol/neymar-dependencia-numeros-da-selecao-brasileira-pioram-sem-o-camisa-10/ |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=CNN Brasil |language=pt-BR}}{{Cite news |title=World Cup 2022: Neymar dependency lingers but Brazil have temperament and quality to rule in Qatar |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12027/12719401/world-cup-2022-neymar-dependency-lingers-but-brazil-have-temperament-and-quality-to-rule-in-qatar |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20221126040845/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12027/12719401/world-cup-2022-neymar-dependency-lingers-but-brazil-have-temperament-and-quality-to-rule-in-qatar |archive-date=2022-11-26 |access-date=2025-06-05 |work=Sky Sports |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |last=Raphinha |first=Brasil enfrenta una difícil situación sin Neymar, con un porcentaje de victorias del 54,7% en los partidos que jugó sin él Desde su lesión en 2023, la selección ha tenido un rendimiento irregular en las eliminatorias sudamericanas A. pesar de los esfuerzos por reemplazarlo, la dependencia de Neymar sigue siendo evidente, y la Canarinha busca el liderazgo de jugadores como Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes y |title=El dato que revela la Neymar-dependencia en Brasil |url=https://www.beinsports.com/es-us/football/eliminatorias-conmebol/articles-video/el-dato-que-revela-la-neymar-dependencia-en-brasil-2025-03-18 |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=beIN SPORTS |language=es-us}} Wilson of Sports Illustrated gives the view that "The early hype [around Neymar] was absurd, and if he has not lived up to it, it is largely because nobody could have."{{Cite web |date=2022-02-04 |title=How Neymar Has Come to Embody Soccer's Modern Age |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2022/02/04/neymar-30-career-expectations-brazil-world-cup-psg-champions-league |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=SI |language=en-US}} Wilson further says that although Neymar has achieved a lot, there is a "clear sense he could have achieved more". At PSG, Neymar was also expected to lead them to their first-ever Champions League title; the club lost to Bayern Munich in the 2020 final. In 2023, following his departure from Europe to Saudi Arabia at a young age (31), various media outlets dubbed Neymar as the 'Prince who never became King'.{{Cite web |last=TB |first=Sai Aswin |date=20 August 2023 |title=Neymar - the Prince who never became King |url=https://thefederal.com/category/sports/neymar-the-prince-who-never-became-the-king-94577 |access-date=27 October 2023 |website=thefederal.com |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Akdeniz |first=Tolga |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar Junior: The dazzling Crown Prince of Brazil who failed to become King |url=https://www.flashscore.com/news/soccer-champions-league-neymar-junior-the-dazzling-crown-prince-of-brazil-who-failed-to-become-king/KfqRle0l/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131011434/https://www.flashscore.com/news/soccer-champions-league-neymar-junior-the-dazzling-crown-prince-of-brazil-who-failed-to-become-king/KfqRle0l/ |archive-date=31 January 2024 |access-date=31 January 2024 |work=Flashscore}}{{Cite web |date=2025-01-31 |title=Neymar signs for Santos: The prince who never became king at Barcelona or PSG |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c93q0vr1klxo |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} In a harsh review following Neymar's move to Al Hilal, RMC Sport journalist Daniel Riolo said: "Do we realise that Neymar, in terms of transfer and salary, is the biggest failure in the history of football? I can't think of a bigger failure for what he cost, it's horrible."{{Cite web |date=15 August 2023 |title=Neymar threw away his chance to become a Barcelona great! Saudi Arabia transfer the only option after world-record failure at PSG {{!}} Goal.com UK |url=https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/neymar-threw-away-barcelona-great-saudi-arabia-transfer-psg-failure/blt4b2702bdafc3f4b3 |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=www.goal.com |language=en-GB}}

In a 2025 interview, Neymar responded to the claims that he did not reach the heights expected of him: “Many things happened, I had many injuries that cost me a lot in my career".{{Cite web |date=2025-02-28 |title=Neymar reflects on injuries, missing out on 'king' status and names the greatest footballer ever |url=https://www.firstpost.com/sports/football-news/neymar-lionel-messi-pele-brazil-football-team-13867477.html |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=Firstpost |language=en-us}} In spite of this, he expressed, "I achieved almost everything I dreamed of, and I even achieved things I never dreamed of."

The media have often drawn comparisons between Neymar and Pelé,{{cite web |author1=Massimo Tanzillo |date=15 January 2011 |title=NEYMAR: 1992 – BRASILE |url=http://www.generazioneditalenti.it/neymar-1992-brasile/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924021451/http://www.generazioneditalenti.it/neymar-1992-brasile/ |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=15 June 2015 |publisher=Generazione Talenti |language=it}} as Neymar possesses similar attributes to that of Pelé, and they both came from the Santos Youth Academy. In February 2013, he was on the cover of Time magazine with the title 'The Next Pelé'.{{Cite magazine |last=Ghosh |first=Bobby |date=25 February 2013 |title=A Q&A With Neymar, Brazil's Stay-At-Home Soccer Superstar |language=en-US |magazine=Time |url=https://keepingscore.blogs.time.com/2013/02/25/a-qa-with-neymar-brazils-stay-at-home-soccer-superstar/ |access-date=30 October 2023 |issn=0040-781X}} Neymar has said that Pelé is his "role model" but also said: "I don't like to make a comparison with Pelé".{{cite news | url=http://es.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issue=416228806&o=int&prev=sub&p=50 | work=FourFourTwo| title=Pelé – Neymar's role model | date=13 November 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html | archive-date=11 June 2015 | access-date=13 November 2012 }}

During his prime years, Neymar has frequently been compared to his Barcelona teammate Messi, by which Neymar has commented on saying: "Messi is above everyone, there is no use comparing me with him. He is the best player in the world and I always get inspired when I watch good football."{{cite news | url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11827/7585054/Neymar-cools-Messi-comparisons | publisher=Sky Sports | title=Neymar cools Messi comparisons | date=10 March 2012 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314165711/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11827/7585054/Neymar-cools-Messi-comparisons | archive-date=14 March 2012 }} Ronaldo stated: "Neymar is a great talent, the best we have in Brazil. He is very similar to Messi." Zico said: "I see Neymar like a [Cristiano] Ronaldo or a Messi, the type who appears and makes things happen."{{cite news | url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8521834/Neymar-Brazils-Next-Big-Thing-could-still-be-the-answer-to-Chelseas-prayers.html | work=The Daily Telegraph | title=Next Big Thing | date=19 May 2011 | location=London | first=Sam | last=Green | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120124192531/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8521834/Neymar-Brazils-Next-Big-Thing-could-still-be-the-answer-to-Chelseas-prayers.html | archive-date=24 January 2012}} After his hat-trick in a 3–1 victory against Internacional in the Copa Libertadores and Messi's five goals scored in the Champions League, Neymar said: "I am a Messi fan. I was told what he did today. I support him to score a lot of nice goals so I can keep copying and imitating him."{{cite news | url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032521/copa-libertadores:-hat-trick-hero-neymar-inspired-by-lionel-messi?cc=3888 | publisher=FIFA | title=Hat-trick hero Neymar inspired by Messi | date=8 March 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310214609/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032521/copa-libertadores%3A-hat-trick-hero-neymar-inspired-by-lionel-messi?cc=3888 | archive-date=10 March 2012}}{{Cite web|last=Polden|first=Jake|date=10 October 2019|title=Neymar compares himself to Lionel Messi because he's "important"|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/neymar-compares-himself-lionel-messi-20551868|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191010122326/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/neymar-compares-himself-lionel-messi-20551868|archive-date=10 October 2019|access-date=10 October 2019|website=Mirror}}

File:Brasil conquista primeiro ouro olímpico nos penaltis 1039248-20082016- mg 0015cropped.jpg at the 2016 Summer Olympics.]]

Neymar has a very close sibling relationship with his sister Rafaella Beckran. He honoured Beckran by tattooing her face on his arm while she tattooed her brother's eyes on her arm.{{cite news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150828230450/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/neymar-reveals-new-tattoo-of-his-sisters-face-on-his-arm-10345683.html|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/neymar-reveals-new-tattoo-of-his-sisters-face-on-his-arm-10345683.html|title=Neymar reveals new tattoo of his sister's face on his arm|archive-date=28 August 2015|work=The Independent|date=25 June 2015|access-date=1 August 2015}} Neymar is the father to one son and two daughters, each with a different woman.{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/neymar-welcomes-baby-no-3-less-than-9-months-after-daughter/3670177/|title=Neymar welcomes baby No. 3 less than 9 months after daughter|last=DeGrazia|first=Leah|work=NBC 10 Philadelphia|date=19 July 2024|via=E! Online}} In December 2024, he announced he is expecting his fourth child; a second daughter with the mother of his second child.{{cite web|url= https://www.cnnbrasil.com.br/entretenimento/gravida-bruna-biancardi-tem-desejo-de-comida-na-madrugada-veja-o-que-foi/|title= Grávida, Bruna Biancardi tem desejo de comida na madrugada; veja o que foi|work=CNN Brasil|date=29 January 2025|last=Christ|first=Giovana|lang=pt-br}}

Neymar is a Christian and follows the Pentecostal branch of the religion.{{cite news|title=Neymar's Religion Helps Ease Burden Amid Concern of Divisiveness|website=Bloomberg News |date=14 May 2014 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-14/neymar-s-religion-helps-ease-burden-amid-concern-of-divisiveness.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109134214/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-14/neymar-s-religion-helps-ease-burden-amid-concern-of-divisiveness.html|archive-date=9 January 2015}} Neymar has said about his faith: "Life only makes sense when our highest ideal is to serve Christ!"{{cite web|title=neymarjr|url=http://instagram.com/p/kRgc5SRtu5/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728181315/http://instagram.com/p/kRgc5SRtu5/|archive-date=28 July 2014}} Additionally, he has worn a headband with the words "100% Jesus".{{cite web |url=https://www.premierchristianity.com/Blog/The-Christian-faith-of-the-world-s-most-expensive-football-player |title=The Christian faith of the world's most expensive football player |access-date=8 August 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809045010/https://www.premierchristianity.com/Blog/The-Christian-faith-of-the-world-s-most-expensive-football-player |archive-date=9 August 2017 }} Neymar also tithes some of his income to his church and has named Kaká as his religious role model.{{cite news |url=http://www.modernghana.com/sports/466431/2/barcelona-neymar-regularly-offers-10-of-his-earnin.html |title=Barcelona : Neymar regularly offers 10% of his earnings to the Church! |work=Modern Ghana |date=30 May 2013 |access-date=18 June 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402180549/http://www.modernghana.com/sports/466431/2/barcelona-neymar-regularly-offers-10-of-his-earnin.html |archive-date=2 April 2015 }} Each year, Neymar organises a charity match with fellow Brazilian footballer Nenê in Nenê's hometown of Jundiaí, with the purpose of raising food for needy families.[http://www.lemeilleurdupsg.com/article-35595-nene-defie-neymar.html "L'ancien joueur du PSG a convié le néo-capitaine de la Seleçao Neymar pour les bienfaits de son match de bienfaisance Fome So de Bola."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214163650/http://www.lemeilleurdupsg.com/article-35595-nene-defie-neymar.html |date=14 February 2015 }}. PSG.com. Retrieved 3 September 2015 In addition to his native Portuguese, Neymar also speaks Spanish.{{cite web |title=Neymar: "Messi y Suárez son dos genios" |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc1FkeSQ-vo |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/pc1FkeSQ-vo |archive-date=21 December 2021 |url-status=live|website=YouTube | date=15 February 2015 |publisher=La Liga |access-date=14 June 2019}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web |title=Neymar Jr - Exclusive Interview |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzgPmjR6alg |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/IzgPmjR6alg |archive-date=21 December 2021 |url-status=live|website=YouTube | date=10 October 2015 |publisher=FC Barcelona |access-date=14 June 2019}}{{cbignore}}

In July 2019, police announced that a rape investigation against Neymar would be dropped due to insufficient evidence.{{Cite web|date=30 July 2019|title=Neymar rape case dropped over lack of evidence |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-49160302|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629232207/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-49160302|archive-date=29 June 2020|access-date=27 August 2019|work=BBC News}} On 2 September 2020, it was reported that Neymar, along with PSG teammates Ángel Di María and Leandro Paredes, tested positive for COVID-19. The French sports newspaper L'Équipe said that the three players reportedly went on vacation in Ibiza. As a result, they were quarantined for one week, and the rest of the players and working staff were scheduled to take a coronavirus test within the same week.{{Cite web|date=2 September 2020|title=PSG's Neymar tests positive for coronavirus - sources|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37586645/psg-neymar-tests-positive-covid-19-sources|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103142926/https://www.espn.com/soccer/paris-saint-germain/story/4171449/psgs-neymar-tests-positive-for-covid-19-sources|archive-date=3 November 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|publisher=ESPN}}{{Cite web|date=2 September 2020|title=Report: Neymar among positive COVID-19 tests at PSG|url=https://soccer.nbcsports.com//09/02/neymar-covid-19-positive-test-psg-coronavirus/|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124034917/https://soccer.nbcsports.com/2020/09/02/neymar-covid-19-positive-test-psg-coronavirus/|archive-date=24 November 2020|access-date=3 September 2020|publisher=NBC Sports}}

File:2019 Final da Copa América 2019 - 48225217491.jpg. He supported Bolsonaro in the 2022 Brazilian general election.{{Cite news |date=30 September 2022 |title=Brazilian soccer star Neymar backs Bolsonaro ahead of Sunday vote |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/brazilian-soccer-star-neymar-backs-bolsonaro-ahead-sunday-vote-2022-09-29/ |access-date=30 September 2022}}]]

During a match between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille, Neymar reported being racially abused by Álvaro González, after being sent off for hitting González in the back of the head.{{Cite web|date=14 September 2020|title=Neymar regrets not hitting Alvaro in the face after red card|url=https://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/neymar-regrets-not-hitting-alvaro-in-the-face-after-red-card|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925131528/https://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/neymar-regrets-not-hitting-alvaro-in-the-face-after-red-card|archive-date=25 September 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=The World Game}} The Spanish defender denied making any racist comments towards Neymar.{{Cite web|date=14 September 2020|title=Álvaro denies Neymar's racism accusations|url=https://en.as.com/en/2020/09/14/football/1600061441_900177.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027014625/https://en.as.com/en/2020/09/14/football/1600061441_900177.html|archive-date=27 October 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=AS.com|language=en}} On 16 September, Neymar was handed a two-match ban for his actions; Ligue 1 also began an investigation into the alleged racist comments made by Álvaro.{{Cite web|date=16 September 2020|title=Neymar given ban as Ligue 1 release full set of sanctions from shocking brawl|url=https://talksport.com/football/760688/neymar-two-match-ban-slap-brawl-ligue-1-investigation-alleged-racism-paris-saint-germain-marseille/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930040526/https://talksport.com/football/760688/neymar-two-match-ban-slap-brawl-ligue-1-investigation-alleged-racism-paris-saint-germain-marseille/|archive-date=30 September 2020|access-date=18 September 2020|website=talkSPORT}} Several days before the decision made by the French league, Spanish radio station Cadena SER claimed to have footage of Neymar racially abusing OM player Hiroki Sakai.{{Cite web|date=30 September 2020|title='Chinese s**t': The video which could land Neymar in hot water for alleged racist insult |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/neymar-racist-insult-video-psg-vs-marseille-hiroki-sakai/news-story/c54c4abbf05d127aea41b7666ad6b2c0|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202153153/https://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/neymar-racist-insult-video-psg-vs-marseille-hiroki-sakai/news-story/c54c4abbf05d127aea41b7666ad6b2c0?nk=d35640a9cdf87a4b91d19ac5d91c0fd8-1606923113|archive-date=2 December 2020|access-date=1 October 2020|website=FOX Sports}} On 30 September, Ligue 1 decided that both Álvaro and Neymar would receive no suspensions as there was insufficient evidence of their wrongdoings.{{Cite web|date=30 September 2020|title=Neymar and Alvaro Gonzalez avoid disciplinary action following bust-up|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11800/12086388/neymar-and-alvaro-gonzalez-avoid-disciplinary-action-following-bust-up|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202152755/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11800/12086388/neymar-and-alvaro-gonzalez-avoid-disciplinary-action-following-bust-up|archive-date=2 December 2020|access-date=1 October 2020|website=Sky Sports}} Additionally, Sakai denied any racist comments from Neymar on social media.{{Cite web|last=Thomas|first=Josh|date=1 October 2020|title=Neymar defended by Marseille's Sakai over racism claim|website=Goal|url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/neymar-defended-by-marseilles-sakai-over-racism-claim/1gmm44hy0nq1a10twwg7wnniik|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201209164918/https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/neymar-defended-by-marseilles-sakai-over-racism-claim/1gmm44hy0nq1a10twwg7wnniik|archive-date=9 December 2020|access-date=3 October 2020}}

Neymar supported Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in the 2022 Brazilian general election.

In the summer of 2023, Agence France-Presse, citing local authorities, reported that Neymar faced a potential fine of about $1 million for environmental violations committed during the construction of his Mangaratiba mansion. The unauthorised diversion of the waterway, the use of beach sand without permission, and the unauthorised earthworks were mentioned in the report.{{Cite web|url=https://uk.news.yahoo.com/neymar-faces-possible-1-mn-014457558.html|title=Neymar faces possible $1 mn fine over Brazil property work|date=23 June 2023|website=Agence France-Presse}}

Neymar has signed many sponsorships since his reputation began to grow from the age of 17. In March 2011, he signed an 11-year contract with American sportswear company Nike,{{cite news |url= http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/neymar_nets_long-term_deal_with_nike/ |title= Neymar nets long-term deal with Nike |publisher= Sports Pro Media |date= 24 March 2011 |access-date= 24 March 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110425202316/http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/neymar_nets_long-term_deal_with_nike/ |archive-date= 25 April 2011}} which ended in August 2020 after a Nike employee made a sexual assault complaint against him.{{cite web|date=28 May 2021|title=Nike says it split with Neymar over sexual assault investigation|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-57278258|access-date=2 February 2022 |publisher=BBC}}{{cite web|date=30 August 2020|title=Neymar, Nike part ways after 15 years|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/neymar-nike-part-ways-15-002831323.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029144527/https://sports.yahoo.com/neymar-nike-part-ways-15-002831323.html|archive-date=29 October 2020|access-date=30 August 2020|publisher=Yahoo! Sports}} Since then, Neymar has signed with German sportswear company Puma.{{cite news|title=Neymar Jr. Signs Long-Term Deal With Puma|agency=Sneaker News|url=https://sneakernews.com/2020/09/14/neymar-puma-deal/|url-status=live|access-date=26 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126161839/https://sneakernews.com/2020/09/14/neymar-puma-deal/|archive-date=26 November 2020}} In March 2011, Panasonic paid US$2.4 million to secure Neymar's services for two years. In 2012, France Football had ranked Neymar 13th in its list of the world's richest players, with total earnings of $18.8 million for the previous 12 months.{{cite web | url = http://www.goal.com/en/news/12/spain/2012/03/19/2978603/messi-tops-football-rich-list-ahead-of-beckham-and-cristiano | title = Messi tops football rich list ahead of Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo | date = 19 March 2012 | access-date = 19 March 2012 | website = goal.com | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120321095721/http://www.goal.com/en/news/12/spain/2012/03/19/2978603/messi-tops-football-rich-list-ahead-of-beckham-and-cristiano | archive-date = 21 March 2012}} He has also signed other sponsorships from Volkswagen, Tenys Pé Baruel, Lupo, Ambev, Claro, Unilever, and Santander.{{cite news |url= http://www.sportspromedia.com/notes_and_insights/the_worlds_17th_most_marketable_athlete_-_neymar/ |title= The world's 17th most marketable athlete – Neymar |publisher= Sports Pro Media |date= 25 May 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111119123021/http://www.sportspromedia.com/notes_and_insights/the_worlds_17th_most_marketable_athlete_-_neymar/ |archive-date= 19 November 2011}}{{cite news|url=http://brazilianbubble.com/living-large-football-star-neymar-and-his-new-yacht/|title=Living Large: Football star Neymar and his new yacht|publisher=Brazilian Bubble|date=8 April 2012|access-date=8 April 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120410191425/http://brazilianbubble.com/living-large-football-star-neymar-and-his-new-yacht/|archive-date=10 April 2012}}{{cite news|url=http://setantabetblog.com/vettel-asks-fans-to-vote-for-neymar/|title=Vettel asks fans to vote for Neymar|publisher=Setanta Blog|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html|archive-date=11 June 2015}}{{cite news |url= http://www.lancenet.com.br/santos/Claro-Neymar-fecha-contrato-publicitario_0_601739889.html |title= Com Claro, Neymar fecha nono contrato publicitário |publisher= Lance Net |date= 2 December 2011 |access-date= 2 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111205034418/http://www.lancenet.com.br/santos/Claro-Neymar-fecha-contrato-publicitario_0_601739889.html |archive-date= 5 December 2011}}

In 2018, France Football ranked Neymar the third-highest-paid footballer in the world, earning a total income for €81.5m ($95m) for the year.{{Cite web|date=23 April 2018|title=Lionel Messi devance largement Cristiano Ronaldo au classement des joueurs les mieux payés au monde|url=https://www.francefootball.fr/news/Lionel-messi-devance-largement-cristiano-ronaldo-au-classement-des-joueurs-les-mieux-payes-au-monde/895372 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201120075640/https://www.francefootball.fr/news/Lionel-messi-devance-largement-cristiano-ronaldo-au-classement-des-joueurs-les-mieux-payes-au-monde/895372|archive-date=20 November 2020|access-date=14 January 2021|website=France Football}} In 2019, Forbes ranked Neymar the world's third-highest-paid athlete (after Messi and Ronaldo) with earnings of $105 million for the year.{{cite news |title=Lionel Messi edges out Cristiano Ronaldo to head Forbes top 100 highest paid athletes |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/48602166?isBumped=0&postFreq=0&isEmpty=0&isProfane=0&tooLong=0&charCount=0&isAwaitingProcessPreMod=0&isSubmitted=1&filter=none&initial_page_size=10&postId=135105092 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124023703/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/48602166?isBumped=0&postFreq=0&isEmpty=0&isProfane=0&tooLong=0&charCount=0&isAwaitingProcessPreMod=0&isSubmitted=1&filter=none&initial_page_size=10&postId=135105092 |archive-date=24 November 2020 |access-date=12 June 2019 |agency=BBC}}

On 8 May 2013, Neymar was named by SportsPro magazine as the most marketable athlete in the world, ahead of Messi (2nd) and Ronaldo (8th).{{cite news| url= http://www.sportspromedia.com/most_marketable/neymar/| title= 50 Most Marketable 2013 – Neymar| publisher= SportsPro| date= 8 May 2013| url-status=live| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130607155536/http://www.sportspromedia.com/most_marketable/neymar| archive-date= 7 June 2013}} The same month, Neymar launched the Nike Hypervenom football boot.{{cite news|date=28 May 2013|title=New Nike Hypervenom boots launched by Neymar in Rio|url=https://www.t3.com/news/new-nike-hypervenom-boots-launched-by-barca-bound-neymar-in-rio|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807124916/https://www.t3.com/news/new-nike-hypervenom-boots-launched-by-barca-bound-neymar-in-rio|archive-date=7 August 2018|access-date=7 August 2018|website=T3|language=en}} In November 2012, advertising agency Loducca created Neymar's own personal brand logo,{{cite news |url= http://www.footballboots.co.uk/8033-njr-the-new-brand-for-neymar.html |title= NJR – New Brand Logo for Neymar |publisher= FootballBoots.co.uk |date= 28 November 2012 |access-date= 29 November 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130209190426/http://www.footballboots.co.uk/8033-njr-the-new-brand-for-neymar.html |archive-date= 9 February 2013}} featuring the N, J, and R (Neymar Junior) with the N styled to match Neymar's shirt number 11. Neymar starred in a 2014 advert for Beats alongside other football stars such as Thierry Henry and Luis Suárez, with the theme of 'The Game Before The Game' and the players pre-game ritual of listening to music.[https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/neymar-thierry-henry-and-luis-suarez-star-in-thrilling-new-world-cup-advert-9495497.html "Neymar, Thierry Henry and Luis Suarez star in thrilling new World Cup advert"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140609025641/http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/neymar-thierry-henry-and-luis-suarez-star-in-thrilling-new-world-cup-advert-9495497.html |date=9 June 2014 }}. London Evening Standard. Retrieved 5 September 2014

In the later stages of his career, Neymar has been regularly seen playing high limit poker, including live streamed celebrity games from California's Hustler Casino.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-25 |title=Top Stories of 2024, #7: Neymar Astounds in Series of Epic Flips |url=https://www.pokernews.com/news/2024/12/top-stories-of-2024-neymar-keating-hustler-casino-live-47489.htm |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=www.pokernews.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-02-06 |title=Soccer Ace Neymar Among the PokerStars Bounty Builder Series Opening Week Entrants |url=https://www.pokernews.com/news/2025/02/top-names-win-big-in-the-pokerstars-bounty-builder-series-47892.htm |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=www.pokernews.com |language=en}} In 2025, boxer Conor Benn called out his rival boxer Chris Eubank Jr. at a pre-fight press conference, alleging Eubank Jr. owed Neymar £4 million in poker debts.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-26 |title=Jab to the Wallet: Boxing Champ Allegedly in £4M Poker Debt to Neymar |url=https://www.pokernews.com/news/2025/02/boxing-champ-allegedly-in-4m-poker-debt-to-neymar-48025.htm |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=www.pokernews.com |language=en}}

File:Neymar visiting Red Bull Arena (cropped).jpg in Harrison, New Jersey during a match between New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy in 2011]]

Neymar was featured on the front covers of the video games Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 on the North American version, after Konami Digital Entertainment announced that he had joined Pro Evolution Soccer.{{cite news|url=http://www.newgamenetwork.com/news/3284/pes-2012-cover-adds-neymar-in-north-america/|title=PES 2012 cover adds Neymar in North America|publisher=new game network|date=9 September 2011|access-date=9 September 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004134415/http://www.newgamenetwork.com/news/3284/pes-2012-cover-adds-neymar-in-north-america/|archive-date=4 October 2011}} Neymar joined Ronaldo as a featured cover athlete.{{cite news|url=http://www.onlyproevolutions.com/2011/09/neymar-joins-ronaldo-on-pes-2012-cover.html|title=Neymar Joins Ronaldo on PES 2012 US Cover|work=only pro evolutions|date=8 September 2011|access-date=8 September 2011|last=Harvey|first=Mike|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207211724/http://www.onlyproevolutions.com/2011/09/neymar-joins-ronaldo-on-pes-2012-cover.html|archive-date=7 December 2013}}{{cite news|url=http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/pro-evolution-soccer-release-new-demo|title=Pro Evolution Soccer release new demo|publisher=GMF|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831064002/http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/pro-evolution-soccer-release-new-demo|archive-date=31 August 2012}} Neymar also features in EA Sports' FIFA video game series, with the trailer for FIFA 18 showing him in his PSG home jersey.{{cite magazine|date=11 June 2018|title=How to Sign Neymar on FIFA 18 and the Earliest PSG Are Willing to Negotiate|magazine=Sports Illustrated|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/09/25/video-how-sign-neymar-fifa-18-and-earliest-psg-are-willing-negotiate|url-status=live|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206160559/https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/09/25/video-how-sign-neymar-fifa-18-and-earliest-psg-are-willing-negotiate|archive-date=6 December 2018}} He appeared alongside Ronaldo on the Champions and Ultimate Edition packs for FIFA 19, where Neymar's "Hang Loose" goal celebration also features in the game.{{cite news|date=9 June 2018|title=FIFA 19 to include Champions League, new commentators – full details, direct from the development team|work=Four Four Two|url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/fifa-19-include-champions-league-new-commentators-full-details-direct-development-team|url-status=live|access-date=13 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190408103207/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/fifa-19-include-champions-league-new-commentators-full-details-direct-development-team|archive-date=8 April 2019}}{{cite news|date=3 September 2018|title=UPDATED FIFA 19 new celebrations and tutorial, ft Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba and Neymar|agency=Talksport|url=https://talksport.com/football/418292/fifa-19-new-celebrations-cristiano-ronaldo-paul-pogba-neymar|url-status=live|access-date=11 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210133956/https://talksport.com/football/418292/fifa-19-new-celebrations-cristiano-ronaldo-paul-pogba-neymar/|archive-date=10 December 2020}} Neymar also appears as a playable operator in the 2022 first-person shooter Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II alongside fellow football players Paul Pogba and Messi,{{Cite web|date=9 November 2022|title=Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II and Call of Duty: Warzone™ 2.0 Season 01: Everything You Need to Know, Including DMZ|url=https://www.callofduty.com/blog/2022/11/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-II-warzone-2-0-season-01-overview-battle-pass-dmz|website=Callofduty.com|access-date=11 November 2022|archive-date=11 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111055158/https://www.callofduty.com/blog/2022/11/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-II-warzone-2-0-season-01-overview-battle-pass-dmz|url-status=live}} whose character models were released as downloadable content to coincide with the 2022 FIFA World Cup.{{Cite web |last=Makuch |first=Eddie |date=4 November 2022 |title=Call Of Duty: MW2, Warzone 2, And Mobile Adding Pogba, Neymar Jr., and Messi |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/call-of-duty-mw2-warzone-2-and-mobile-adding-pogba-neymar-jr-and-messi/1100-6508920/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115011908/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/call-of-duty-mw2-warzone-2-and-mobile-adding-pogba-neymar-jr-and-messi/1100-6508920/ |archive-date=15 November 2022 |access-date=6 October 2023 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US}}

Neymar appeared on the cover of Time magazine in February 2013, the first Brazilian athlete to do so. The issue included an article by Ghosh entitled "The Next Pelé" and subtitled "How the career of Brazilian football star Neymar explains his country's economy".{{cite news |url=http://sports.terra.com/soccer/neymar-featured-on-cover-of-time-magazine,98333ee00defc310VgnVCM20000099cceb0aRCRD.html |title=Neymar featured on cover of Time Magazine |work=Terra Sports |date=21 February 2013 |access-date=18 May 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522141422/http://sports.terra.com/soccer/neymar-featured-on-cover-of-time-magazine%2C98333ee00defc310VgnVCM20000099cceb0aRCRD.html |archive-date=22 May 2014 }}

Controversy erupted because of a cover by Brazilian football magazine Placar that depicted Neymar on a cross. The title read "A Crucificação de Neymar" (the Crucifixion of Neymar) and subtitled: "the Brazilian ace turns scapegoat in a sport where everyone plays dirty".{{cite web |url=http://www.caughtoffside.com/2012/10/01/image-brazil-prodigy-neymar-depicted-as-christ-on-the-cross-for-football-magazine/ |author=Dan Kilpatrick |title=Brazil Prodigy Neymar Depicted As Christ on the Cross For Football Magazine |publisher=CaughtOffside.com |date=1 October 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206095524/http://www.caughtoffside.com/2012/10/01/image-brazil-prodigy-neymar-depicted-as-christ-on-the-cross-for-football-magazine/ |archive-date=6 December 2013 |access-date=8 July 2013 }}

In April 2013, Brazilian cartoonist Mauricio de Sousa released a Monica's Gang comic book featuring a younger version of Neymar (called Neymar Jr.) as the main character.{{cite news| url= http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-Brazlils-Neymar-becomes-comic-book-character/tabid/415/articleID/294882/Default.aspx| work= 3 News NZ| title= Neymar now a comic book character| date= 19 April 2013| url-status= dead| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131206142058/http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-Brazlils-Neymar-becomes-comic-book-character/tabid/415/articleID/294882/Default.aspx| archive-date= 6 December 2013| access-date= 19 April 2013}}

In May 2013, SportsPro magazine named Neymar as the most marketable athlete on the planet for the second consecutive year. He topped the list ahead of Lionel Messi, Rory McIlroy, Usain Bolt and Ronaldo, among other sportspeople.{{cite web |url=http://www.sportspromedia.com/most_marketable/neymar |title=Neymar tops list of most marketable athletes in the world |work=SportsPro Media |date=8 May 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607155536/http://www.sportspromedia.com/most_marketable/neymar |archive-date=7 June 2013 }} The list measures the monetary value, the age, the force in domestic markets, the charisma and their market potential in the next three years. In March 2015, Neymar had the fourth highest social media rank in the world among sportspeople, behind Ronaldo, Messi and David Beckham, with 52 million Facebook fans.{{cite news|title=Cristiano Ronaldo overtakes Shakira as Facebook's most 'liked' person|url=https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cristiano-ronaldo-overtakes-shakira-as-facebook-s-most--liked-person-085815659-soccer.html?pt=1/|publisher=Yahoo.com|date=10 February 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211075400/https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cristiano-ronaldo-overtakes-shakira-as-facebook-s-most--liked-person-085815659-soccer.html?pt=1%2F|archive-date=11 February 2017}}[https://pt-br.facebook.com/neymarjr?rf=109286749090310 "Neymar Jr. – Atleta"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122231535/https://pt-br.facebook.com/neymarjr?rf=109286749090310 |date=22 January 2016 }}. Facebook. Retrieved 8 October 2014 He has over 200 million Instagram followers, the third highest for a sportsperson (after Ronaldo and Messi), and inside the top 20 most followed people.{{Cite web|url=https://socialblade.com/instagram/top/100/followers|title=Top 100 Instagram Users by Followers- Socialblade Instagram Stats – Instagram Statistics|work=Socialblade|access-date=3 October 2017}} In ESPN's list of active sportspeople in 2016, Neymar was ranked the fourth most famous athlete in the world.{{cite news|title=ESPN World Fame 100|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/15685581/espn-world-fame-100|work=ESPN|date=3 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160713040749/http://espn.go.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/15685581/espn-world-fame-100|archive-date=13 July 2016}} In April 2017, Neymar was included in the Time 100, Time magazine's list of the most influential people in the world.{{cite web |url=http://nesn.com/2017/04/neymar-included-on-times-100-most-influential-people-david-beckham-explains-why/ |title=Neymar Belongs on Time's '100 Most Influential People'; David Beckham Explains Why |date=20 April 2017 |work=NESN |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421020228/http://nesn.com/2017/04/neymar-included-on-times-100-most-influential-people-david-beckham-explains-why/ |archive-date=21 April 2017 }} In 2019, ESPN again ranked him the world's fourth most famous athlete.{{cite news|title=World Fame 100 – 2019|work=ESPN|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/26113613/espn-world-fame-100-2019|url-status=live|access-date=14 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210104113759/http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/26113613/espn-world-fame-100-2019|archive-date=4 January 2021}}

To mark the World Cup commencing in Brazil, in June 2014, Neymar appeared with supermodel Gisele Bündchen on the front cover of Vogue's Brazilian edition.{{cite news|date=7 December 2017|title=Neymar And Gisele Bündchen Are The 'Dream Team' For Vogue Brazil|work=Huffington Post|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/neymar-gisele-bundchen_n_5406336|url-status=live|access-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115153730/https://consent.yahoo.com/v2/collectConsent?sessionId=2_cc-session_4a3f4092-2080-42bb-93e1-39e25d2ccec1|archive-date=15 January 2021}} In November 2014, Neymar appeared in FIFA's "11 against Ebola" campaign with a selection of top football players from around the world, including Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Xavi and Didier Drogba.[https://www.fifa.com/aboutfifa/footballdevelopment/medical/media/news/newsid=2475755/ "Top players, FIFA, CAF and health experts unite against Ebola"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150330054259/http://www.fifa.com/aboutfifa/footballdevelopment/medical/media/news/newsid%3D2475755/ |date=30 March 2015 }}. FIFA. Retrieved 4 March 2015 Under the slogan "Together, we can beat Ebola", FIFA's campaign was done in conjunction with the Confederation of African Football and health experts, with the players holding up eleven messages to raise awareness of the disease and ways to combat it.[http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/neymar-pique-and-xavi-in-fifa-campaign-against-ebola "Neymar, Piqué and Xavi in FIFA campaign against Ebola"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150316194609/http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/neymar-pique-and-xavi-in-fifa-campaign-against-ebola |date=16 March 2015 }}. FC Barcelona. Retrieved 4 March 2015

In collaboration with DAZN, in 2019 Neymar appeared in The Making Of series, documentaries which relives the significant games that helped define football's greatest modern icons, with Neymar recounting his performance for Santos against Flamengo in 2011 when he scored that year's FIFA Puskás Award for Goal of the Year,{{cite web| url=https://media.dazn.com/en/press-releases/2019/08/dazn-announces-the-making-of-series-featuring-ronaldo-neymar-jr-and-mourinho/| title=DAZN announces making of series| website=www.DAZN.com| date=August 2019| access-date=12 October 2021| archive-date=25 October 2021| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025160540/https://media.dazn.com/en/press-releases/2019/08/dazn-announces-the-making-of-series-featuring-ronaldo-neymar-jr-and-mourinho/| url-status=dead}} and also the film Neymar and the Line of King which covers Neymar's journey in becoming one of Brazil's top players.{{cite news | url=https://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/broadcasting/dazn-to-premiere-neymar-jr-and-the-line-of-kings/5164101.article| website=Broadcastnow.co.uk |title=DAZN to premiere Neymar Jr And The Line Of Kings| access-date=8 October 2021}}{{cite web| url=https://www.commongood.studio/neymar |title=Neymar Jr. and the Line of Kings| website=commongood.studio| access-date=12 October 2021}}

In December 2021, he signed a deal with Facebook Gaming.{{Cite web|last=Spangler|first=Todd|date=16 December 2021|title=Soccer Star Neymar Jr. Inks Exclusive Facebook Gaming Streaming Deal|url=https://variety.com/2021/digital/news/neymar-facebook-gaming-exclusive-streaming-1235134489/|access-date=17 December 2021|website=Variety|language=en-US}} He was also the subject of a 2022 Netflix documentary series titled Neymar: The Perfect Chaos.{{Cite web|title=Netflix, Uninterrupted prep Neymar docuseries "The Perfect Chaos"|url=https://realscreen.com/2021/12/14/netflix-uninterrupted-prep-neymar-docuseries-the-perfect-chaos/ |first1=Justin |last1=Anderson |work=RealScreen|date=14 December 2021|access-date=13 November 2022}}

In the days leading up to the 2022 Brazilian presidential election, Neymar appeared in a TikTok video where he lip-synced a campaign jingle promoting the country's right-wing and socially conservative President Jair Bolsonaro.{{cite web | url=https://globalsportmatters.com/culture/2022/11/17/brazil-national-football-team-symbol-disastrous-presidency-jair-bolsonaro-neymar/ | title=How the Brazil National Football Team Came to Symbolize Jair Bolsonaro | date=17 November 2022 }}{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/sep/30/brazil-neymar-bolsonaro-support-election | title=Brazil football star Neymar backs far-right Bolsonaro days before election | newspaper=The Guardian | date=30 September 2022 | last1=Downie | first1=Andrew }} He received heavy criticism for his endorsement.{{cite web | url=https://www.cnn.com/2022/09/30/football/neymar-jair-bolsonaro-brazil-elections-football-spt-intl/index.html | title=Brazilian soccer star Neymar Jr. Faces criticism for Bolsonaro support | website=CNN | date=30 September 2022 }} Bolsonaro was defeated in the election by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Neymar has become an icon in promoting Brazilian modern pop music, particularly Música sertaneja. The video in which Neymar dances in the Santos locker room dancing in front of teammates carrying his recorder making the round of the players and making them react to the tune of Michel Teló's hit "Ai se eu te pego!" went viral. He made a point of performing his dance antics to the song after scoring goals in football games and appeared live with Teló in one of the latter's concerts. He also supported sertanejo singer Gusttavo Lima performing live with Lima on renditions of the singer's hits "Balada" and "Fazer Beber". In 2012, he made cameo appearances in the music video for yet another sertanejo hit "Eu Quero Tchu, Eu Quero Tcha" by João Lucas & Marcelo. In 2013, Neymar appeared on a rap music video, "País do Futebol" by MC Guimê.[http://www.foxsports.com.br/noticias/139820-parca-de-neymar-mc-guime-explica-sucesso-de-pais-do-futebol "'Parça' de Neymar, MC Guimê explica sucesso de 'País do Futebol'"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924015338/http://www.foxsports.com.br/noticias/139820-parca-de-neymar-mc-guime-explica-sucesso-de-pais-do-futebol |date=24 September 2015 }}. Fox Sports. Retrieved 22 May 2014

{{updated|match played 1 June 2025}}{{Soccerway|neymar-da-silva-santos-junior/102697|access-date=12 February 2015}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/football/player/_/id/132948/Neymar|title=Neymar Stats, News, Bio|work=ESPN|access-date=3 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022213548/http://espnfc.com/player/_/id/132948/neymar?cc=3888|archive-date=22 October 2013}}

{{notelist}}

File:Brazil and Croatia match at the FIFA World Cup 2014-06-12 (19).jpg

{{see also|List of international goals scored by Neymar}}

{{updated|match played 17 October 2023}}{{cite web | url = http://www.national-football-teams.com/player/39625/Neymar.html | title = Neymar | website = National Football Teams | access-date = 26 March 2015 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141021141052/http://www.national-football-teams.com/player/39625/Neymar.html | archive-date = 21 October 2014}}

{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}

Santos{{cite web |title=Neymar |url=https://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/staff/players/2016-2017/neymar-jr |publisher=FC Barcelona |access-date=11 August 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812023551/https://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/staff/players/2016-2017/neymar-jr |archive-date=12 August 2017 }}

• Copa do Brasil: 2010
• Campeonato Paulista: 2010, 2011, 2012; runner-up: 2009
• Copa Libertadores: 2011
• Recopa Sudamericana: 2012

Barcelona

• La Liga: 2014–15, 2015–16
• Copa del Rey: 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17
• Supercopa de España: 2013
• UEFA Champions League: 2014–15
• FIFA Club World Cup: 2015

Paris Saint-Germain

• Ligue 1: 2017–18,{{Cite web|date=15 April 2018|title=PSG wrap up Ligue 1 title with Monaco win | Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en-my/news/psg-clinch-ligue-1-title-by-thrashing-monaco/1ty70ovdroka415jkim9oc0zsj|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114200332/https://www.goal.com/en-my|archive-date=14 November 2020|access-date=15 April 2018|website=Goal}} 2018–19,{{cite web|url=https://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/psg-champions-as-lille-held-at-toulouse.htm|title=PSG Champions as Lille held at Toulouse|date=21 April 2019|access-date=21 April 2019|website=www.ligue1.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626220236/https://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/psg-champions-as-lille-held-at-toulouse.htm|archive-date=26 June 2019|url-status=dead}} 2019–20, 2021–22,{{Cite web |last=Whitehead |first=Luke Bosher and Jacob |date=23 April 2022 |title=PSG crowned Ligue 1 champions after draw against Lens |url=https://theathletic.com/news/psg-crowned-ligue-1-champions-after-messi-secures-draw-against-lens/aoDgDkRZDFEo/ |access-date=23 April 2022 |website=The Athletic |language=en}} 2022–23{{Cite web |date=27 May 2023 |title=Football : le PSG remporte son onzième titre de champion de France |url=https://www.france24.com/fr/info-en-continu/20230527-football-le-psg-remporte-son-onzi%C3%A8me-titre-de-champion-de-france |access-date=7 June 2023 |website=France 24 |language=Fr}}
• Coupe de France: 2017–18,{{cite news|date=8 May 2018|title=Paris Saint-Germain set record with fourth straight Coupe De France crown|url=https://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/paris-saint-germain-set-record-with-fourth-straight-coupe-de/1ubb1rik0lw6b1pwatka3l5nh6|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201214105509/https://www.goal.com/en-ng/amp/news/paris-saint-germain-set-record-with-fourth-straight-coupe-de/1ubb1rik0lw6b1pwatka3l5nh6|archive-date=14 December 2020|access-date=8 May 2018|website=Goal}} 2019–20,{{cite news|date=24 July 2020|title=PSG edge ASSE for Coupe de France win!|url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/OTHER-COMPETITIONS/2020/07/25/psg-edge-asse-for-coupe-de-france-win|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103014938/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/OTHER-COMPETITIONS/2020/07/25/psg-edge-asse-for-coupe-de-france-win|archive-date=3 November 2020|access-date=25 July 2020|website=ligue1.com}} 2020–21;{{cite news|title=Kylian Mbappé stars as PSG beat Monaco in Coupe de France final|url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/OTHER-COMPETITIONS/2021/05/19/kylian-mbappe-stars-as-psg-beat-monaco-in-coupe-de-france-final|website=ligue1.com|date=19 May 2021|access-date=21 May 2021}} runner-up: 2018–19{{Cite web |last=Pécout |first=Adrien |date=28 April 2019 |title=Rennes remporte la Coupe de France : une longue attente enfin récompensée |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/sport/article/2019/04/28/coupe-de-france-rennes-une-longue-attente-enfin-recompensee_5455821_3242.html |access-date=7 June 2023 |website=Le Monde |language=Fr}}
• Coupe de la Ligue: 2017–18,{{cite web|date=31 March 2018|title=Mbappé stars as PSG beat Monaco to lift cup|url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/NEWS/2020/01/26/mbappe-stars-as-psg-beat-monaco-to-lift-cup|access-date=15 January 2021|publisher=Ligue 1}} 2019–20
• Trophée des Champions: 2018,{{cite web|date=4 August 2018|title=PSG thrash Monaco to win French Super Cup as Neymar plays 15 minutes|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=511012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327164018/https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=511012|archive-date=27 March 2020|access-date=4 August 2018|publisher=ESPN}} 2020,{{cite web|date=13 January 2021|title=Neymar and Icardi fire Pochettino to first title|url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/MATCH-REPORTS/2021/01/13/neymar-and-icardi-fire-pochettino-to-first-title|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115123105/https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/MATCH-REPORTS/2021/01/13/neymar-and-icardi-fire-pochettino-to-first-title|archive-date=15 January 2021|access-date=13 January 2021|website=Ligue 1}} 2022{{Cite web |date=31 July 2022 |title=A final, lots of goals and a trophy: a great start to the season! |url=https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/a-final-lots-of-goals-and-a-trophy-a-great-start-to-the-season-match-report-paris-saint-germain-trophee-des-champions-psg-nantes |access-date=1 August 2022 |publisher=Paris Saint-Germain F.C.}}
• UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2019–20

Al-Hilal

• Saudi Pro League: 2023–24{{cite news |date=5 May 2024 |title="I Couldn't Give Them Much" – Injured Neymar Hints About Future With Al Hilal Following Saudi Pro League Triumph |url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/soccer-football-news-i-couldnt-give-them-much-injured-neymar-hints-about-future-with-al-hilal-following-saudi-pro-league-triumph/ |access-date=14 May 2024 |website=Essentially Sports}}

Brazil U20

• South American U-20 Championship: 2011

Brazil Olympic

• Summer Olympics: 2016; runner-up: 2012{{cite news |last=Irvin |first=Duncan |date=11 August 2012 |title=Mexico Wins Soccer Gold Medal, 2-1 |url=http://london2012.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/11/live-coverage-of-mexico-brazil-soccer-final/ |access-date=15 April 2025 |newspaper=New York Times}}

Brazil

• FIFA Confederations Cup: 2013
• Copa América runner-up: 2021

IndividualFile:Neymargoldenball.jpg]]

Awards

• FIFA Ballon d'Or/Ballon d'Or 3rd place: 2015, 2017
• FIFA The Best Men's Player 3rd place: 2017{{Cite web |date=2017-10-24 |title=Trending: Ronaldo beats Messi to FIFA award |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37484912/trending-ronaldo-beats-messi-neymar-best-fifa-men-player-award |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}
• FIFA Puskás Award: 2011
• FIFA FIFPRO World 11: 2015,{{Cite web |date=11 January 2016 |title=2015 FIFA FIFPro World XI revealed |url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/2015-fifa-fifpro-world-xi-revealed-2754606 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190926045700/https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/2015-fifa-fifpro-world-xi-revealed-2754606 |archive-date=26 September 2019 |access-date=15 January 2021 |website=FIFA.com}} 2017{{cite web |date=24 October 2017 |title=HISTORY - THE FIFA FIFPRO WORLD 11 OF 2017 |url=https://www.fifpro.org/en/industry/world-11/history-the-fifa-fifpro-world-11-of-2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201207161004/https://fifpro.org/en/industry/world-11/history-the-fifa-fifpro-world-11-of-2017 |archive-date=7 December 2020 |access-date=15 January 2021 |website=FIFPRO}}
• UEFA Team of the Year: 2015,{{cite news |date=8 January 2016 |title=Team of the Year 2015 |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0253-0d809ae6dd3b-3da0ae473003-1000--uefa-com-users-team-of-the-year-2015/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200616091057/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0253-0d809ae6dd3b-3da0ae473003-1000--uefa-com-users-team-of-the-year-2015/?autoplay=true&referrer=%2fuefachampionsleague%2fnews%2fnewsid%3d2322451 |archive-date=16 June 2020 |access-date=8 January 2016 |publisher=UEFA}} 2020{{cite news |date=20 January 2021 |title=UEFA.com fans' Team of the Year 2020 revealed |url=https://www.uefa.com/news-media/news/0265-1160a803540f-283794ce2b95-1000--uefa-com-fans-teams-of-the-year-2020-announced/ |access-date=20 January 2021 |publisher=UEFA}}
• UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: 2014–15,{{cite news |date=9 June 2015 |title=UEFA Champions League squad of the season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0253-0d802a501f23-68765bf409b3-1000--uefa-champions-league-squad-of-the-season/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611133541/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid%3D2255077.html#uefa+champions+league+squad+season |archive-date=11 June 2015 |access-date=9 June 2015 |publisher=UEFA}} 2019–20,{{cite news |date=28 August 2020 |title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0260-103d6b6179e6-7a1932c7a58c-1000--uefa-champions-league-squad-of-the-season |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114125542/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0260-103d6b6179e6-7a1932c7a58c-1000--uefa-champions-league-squad-of-the-season/ |archive-date=14 November 2020 |access-date=28 August 2020 |publisher=UEFA}} 2020–21{{cite news |date=31 May 2021 |title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0269-12688c451cdd-b6efcb4ce948-1000--champions-league-all-star-squad/ |access-date=1 June 2021 |publisher=UEFA}}
• FIFA World Cup Bronze Boot: 2014
• FIFA World Cup Dream Team: 2014
• FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Ball: 2013
• FIFA Confederations Cup Bronze Shoe: 2013
• FIFA Confederations Cup Dream Team: 2013
• Copa América Best Player (joint): 2021{{Cite web |date=2021-07-10 |title=CONMEBOL announce Messi and Neymar as Copa America's best players |url=https://e00-marca.uecdn.es/en/football/copa-america/2021/07/11/60ea199222601d493d8b456b.html |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=MARCA |language=en}}
• Globe Soccer Player Career Award: 2024{{Cite web |title=Neymar Jr (Player Career Award) |url=https://www.globesoccer.com/winners/neymar-jr-player-career-award-2024/ |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=Globe Soccer Awards |language=en-US}}
• UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Year: 2017–18{{cite news |title=Trophées UNFP : Neymar, Mbappé... Découvrez le palmarès 2018 |url=http://www.rtl.fr/sport/football/trophees-unfp-neymar-mbappe-decouvrez-le-palmares-2018-7793373391 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210106095424/https://www.rtl.fr/sport/football/trophees-unfp-neymar-mbappe-decouvrez-le-palmares-2018-7793373391 |archive-date=6 January 2021 |access-date=14 May 2018 |publisher=RTL}}
• UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year: 2017–18,{{cite news |title=Trophées UNFP : Neymar élu joueur de Ligue 1, Le PSG rafle tout ou presque |url=http://sport24.lefigaro.fr/football/ligue-1/actualites/la-ceremonie-des-trophees-unfp-en-direct-908921 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201213021701/https://sport24.lefigaro.fr/football/ligue-1/actualites/la-ceremonie-des-trophees-unfp-en-direct-908921 |archive-date=13 December 2020 |access-date=13 May 2018}} 2018–19,{{cite web |date=19 May 2019 |title=Mbappé Wins Awards Double |url=https://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/mbappe-wins-awards-double.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190525011547/https://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/mbappe-wins-awards-double.htm |archive-date=25 May 2019 |access-date=19 May 2019 |website=www.ligue1.com}} 2020–21{{cite news |date=24 May 2021 |title=Trophées UNFP : cinq Parisiens, deux Lillois et deux Lyonnais dans l'équipe type |trans-title=Trophées UNFP : five Parisiens, two Lillois and two Lyonnais in the typical team |url=https://sport24.lefigaro.fr/football/ligue-1/fil-info/trophees-unfp-cinq-parisiens-deux-lillois-et-deux-lyonnais-dans-l-equipe-type-1045019 |access-date=24 May 2021 |website=Le Figaro |language=fr}}
• La Liga Best World Player: 2014–15{{cite journal |date=30 November 2015 |title=Messi beats Ronaldo to top prize at La Liga awards |url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/messi-beats-ronaldo-top-prize-la-liga-awards |journal=Four Four Two |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401183940/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/messi-beats-ronaldo-top-prize-la-liga-awards |archive-date=1 April 2019 |access-date=8 March 2016}}
• Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Best Player: 2011
• Copa Libertadores Most Valuable Player: 2011
• IFFHS CONMEBOL Team of the Decade: 2011–2020{{cite web |date=26 January 2021 |title=IFFHS MAN TEAM - CONMEBOL - OF THE DECADE 2011-2020 |url=https://www.iffhs.com/index.php/posts/921 |work=IFFHS}}
• Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Team of the Year: 2010, 2011, 2012{{cite web|date=6 December 2010|title=Prêmio Craque do Brasileirão|url=http://globoesporte.globo.com/temporeal/cobertura/livre/06-12-2010/premio-craque-do-brasileirao/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201110073731/http://globoesporte.globo.com/temporeal/cobertura/livre/06-12-2010/premio-craque-do-brasileirao/|archive-date=10 November 2020|access-date=19 May 2009|publisher=Globo Esporte|language=pt}}{{cite web |title=Os eleitos do Prêmio Craque do Brasileirão! |url=http://www.lanceactivo.com.br/www-lanceactivo-com-br-a-beira-do-campo/Blog/os-eleitos-do-premio-craque-do-brasileirao-/81551 |date=6 December 2011 |access-date=24 December 2011 |publisher=Lance! |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426071425/http://www.lanceactivo.com.br/www-lanceactivo-com-br-a-beira-do-campo/Blog/os-eleitos-do-premio-craque-do-brasileirao-/81551 |archive-date=26 April 2012 }}{{cite web |title=Conheça os grandes vencedores do futebol brasileiro |trans-title=Meet the big winners of Brazilian football |url=http://www.cbf.com.br/Not%C3%ADcias/2012/11/23/Conhe%C3%A7a%20os%20grandes%20vencedores%20do%20futebol%20brasileiro |date=23 November 2012 |access-date=23 November 2012 |publisher=CBF |language=pt |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121130141048/http://www.cbf.com.br/Not%C3%ADcias/2012/11/23/Conhe%C3%A7a%20os%20grandes%20vencedores%20do%20futebol%20brasileiro |archive-date=30 November 2012 |url-status=dead}}
• Chuteira de Ouro: 2010, 2011, 2012
• Bola de Prata: 2010, 2011
• Bola de Ouro: 2011
• Troféu Mesa Redonda Best Player: 2011,{{cite web|url=https://trofeumesaredonda.com.br/historico/2011.html#fotos-ano |title=Troféu Mesa Redonda 2011 |website=Troféu Mesa Redonda |language=pt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241126181227/https://trofeumesaredonda.com.br/historico/2011.html#fotos-ano |archive-date=26 November 2024}} 2012{{cite web|url=https://trofeumesaredonda.com.br/historico/2012.html#fotos-ano |title=Troféu Mesa Redonda 2012 |website=Troféu Mesa Redonda |language=pt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241122170925/https://trofeumesaredonda.com.br/historico/2012.html#fotos-ano |archive-date=22 November 2024}}
• World Soccer Young Player of the Year: 2011
• FIFA Club World Cup Bronze Ball: 2011
• South American Footballer of the Year: 2011, 2012
• Bola de Ouro Hors Concours: 2012
• Samba Gold: 2014, 2015, 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022{{cite news |url=http://www.sambafoot.com/en/news/67568_neymar_wins_his_first_samba_gold.html |title=Neymar wins his first Samba Gold |website=Sambafoot |date=31 December 2014 |access-date=10 June 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924094358/http://www.sambafoot.com/en/news/67568_neymar_wins_his_first_samba_gold.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 }}{{cite news|title=Neymar wins the Samba Gold Award for the fourth time|url=https://www.sambafoot.com/en/news/neymar-wins-the-samba-gold-award-for-the-fourth-time|date=7 May 2021|access-date=7 May 2021|website=Sambafoot}}{{cite news|url=https://www.sambafoot.com/en/news/neymar-winner-samba-gold-2021|title=Neymar is the big winner of the Samba Gold Trophy 2021|last=Kolade|first=Daniel|date=2 February 2022|website=Sambafoot|access-date=2 February 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://www.sambafoot.com/news/neymar-is-the-winner-of-the-2022-samba-gold-trophy-player-wins-the-award-for-the-6th-time|title=Neymar is the winner of the 2022 Samba Gold Trophy; player wins the award for the 6th time|last=Seixas|first=Josué|date=8 February 2023|website=Sambafoot|access-date=8 February 2023}}
• La Liga Player of the Month: November 2015[http://www.laliga.es/en/news/neymar-named-liga-bbva-player-of-the-month-for-november Neymar named Liga BBVA Player of the Month for November] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912234658/http://www.laliga.es/en/news/neymar-named-liga-bbva-player-of-the-month-for-november|date=12 September 2017}}; LFP.es 8 December 2015
• UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Month: January 2020,{{Cite web |date=21 February 2020 |title=Neymar gets Player of the Month nod for January |url=https://www.ligue1.com/Articles/NEWS/2020/02/21/neymar-gets-player-of-the-month-nod-for-january |access-date=25 September 2022 |website=Ligue1 |language=}} August 2022
• IFFHS Men's World Team: 2017{{cite web|date=12 December 2017|title=THE IFFHS MEN WORLD TEAM 2017|url=https://www.iffhs.com/index.php/posts/480|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115130546/https://www.iffhs.com/index.php/posts/480|archive-date=15 January 2021|access-date=15 January 2021|publisher=IFFHS}}
• ESM Team of the Year: 2017–18{{cite book |title=ESM Top-Elf: Ein Bayern-Star in Europas Elite |work=Abendzeitung |language=ko |url=http://cafe.daum.net/ASMONACOFC/gAUc/1268375 |access-date=22 June 2018}}
• Copa América Team of the Tournament: 2021{{cite news |url=https://copaamerica.com/es/noticias/equipo-ideal-get-conmebol-copa-america-2021/ |website=Copa América |date=13 July 2021 |title=Uno por uno, el equipo ideal de la CONMEBOL Copa América 2021 elegido por el GET |access-date=13 July 2021 |language=es}}

Performances

• Copa do Brasil top scorer: 2010
• South American U-20 Championship top scorer: 2011
• Campeonato Paulista top scorer: 2012
• Copa Libertadores top scorer: 2012 ^{(tied with Matías Alustiza)}
• Copa Libertadores 2nd top assist provider: 2012{{cite web|title=Copa Libertadores 2012 » Assists|url=https://www.worldfootball.net/assists/copa-libertadores-2012/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610001845/https://www.worldfootball.net/assists/copa-libertadores-2012/|archive-date=10 June 2020|access-date=15 January 2021|website=World Football}}
• Copa del Rey top scorer: 2014–15{{cite web|title=Copa del Rey Top Scorer: 2014–15|url=http://www.worldfootball.net/goalgetter/esp-copa-del-rey-2014-2015/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126190602/https://www.worldfootball.net/goalgetter/esp-copa-del-rey-2014-2015/|archive-date=26 November 2020|access-date=24 May 2016|publisher=World Football}}
• UEFA Champions League top scorer: 2014–15 ^{(tied with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi)}
• FIFA Club World Cup top assist provider: 2015{{cite web|title=Club World Cup 2015 » Assists|url=https://www.worldfootball.net/assists/klub-wm-2015/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115131840/https://www.worldfootball.net/assists/klub-wm-2015/|archive-date=15 January 2021|access-date=15 January 2021|website=World Football}}
• UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2015–16, 2016–17{{cite web|title=Champions League 2016/2017 " Assists|url=http://www.worldfootball.net/assists/champions-league-2016-2017/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805142321/https://www.worldfootball.net/assists/champions-league-2016-2017/|archive-date=5 August 2020|access-date=25 October 2017|publisher=WorldFootball}}

{{Portal|Association football|Brazil}}

• List of top international men's football goalscorers by country
• List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps
• List of men's footballers with 50 or more international goals
• List of most expensive association football transfers

{{Clear}}

{{reflist|group=note}}

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{{Sister project links|c=Category:Neymar|d=yes|q=yes|n=yes|s=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|m=no|mw=no|wikt=no|species=no}}

• {{Official website}} {{in lang|pt}}
• [https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/squad/neymar-jr Profile] at the Paris Saint-Germain F.C. website
• {{FIFA player}}
• {{UEFA player}}
• {{LFP Ligue 1|neymar-da-silva-santos-junior}}

{{Santos FC squad}}

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{{Brazil squad 2011 Copa América}}

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{{2014 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament}}

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{{2015 UEFA Team of the Year}}

{{2020 UEFA Team of the Year}}

{{2010 South American Team of the Year}}

{{2011 South American Team of the Year}}

{{2012 South American Team of the Year}}

{{2013 South American Team of the Year}}

{{2010 Bola de Prata}}

{{2011 Bola de Prata}}

{{2010 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Team of the Year}}

{{2011 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Team of the Year}}

{{2012 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Team of the Year}}

{{2017–18 Ligue 1 UNFP Team of the Year}}

{{2018–19 Ligue 1 UNFP Team of the Year}}

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{{South American Footballer of the Year}}

{{Bola de Ouro}}

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{{Ligue 1 Player of the Year}}

{{UEFA Champions League top scorers}}

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{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Neymar}}

Category:1992 births

Category:Living people

Category:2011 Copa América players

Category:2013 FIFA Confederations Cup players

Category:2014 FIFA World Cup players

Category:2015 Copa América players

Category:2018 FIFA World Cup players

Category:2021 Copa América players

Category:2022 FIFA World Cup players

Category:Afro-Brazilian sportspeople

Category:Al-Hilal Saudi FC players

Category:Men's association football forwards

Category:Men's association football wingers

Category:Associação Atlética Portuguesa (Santos) players

Category:Brazil men's international footballers

Category:Brazil men's under-20 international footballers

Category:Brazil men's youth international footballers

Category:Brazilian Christians

Category:Brazilian expatriate men's footballers

Category:Brazilian expatriate sportspeople in France

Category:Brazilian expatriate sportspeople in Saudi Arabia

Category:Brazilian expatriate sportspeople in Spain

Category:Brazilian men's footballers

Category:Campeonato Brasileiro Série A players

Category:Copa Libertadores–winning players

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in France

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Saudi Arabia

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Spain

Category:FC Barcelona players

Category:FIFA Men's Century Club

Category:FIFA Confederations Cup–winning players

Category:Footballers at the 2012 Summer Olympics

Category:Footballers at the 2016 Summer Olympics

Category:La Liga players

Category:Ligue 1 players

Category:Medalists at the 2012 Summer Olympics

Category:Medalists at the 2016 Summer Olympics

Category:Olympic footballers for Brazil

Category:Olympic gold medalists for Brazil

Category:Olympic medalists in football

Category:Olympic silver medalists for Brazil

Category:Paris Saint-Germain FC players

Category:Footballers from Mogi das Cruzes

Category:Santos FC players

Category:São Paulo state football team players

Category:UEFA Champions League–winning players

Category:Copa Libertadores top scorers

Category:UEFA Champions League top scorers

Category:21st-century Brazilian sportsmen