Since leaving Barcelona for PSG in a deal worth €222 million, Neymar has constantly looked to return to reclaim his throne in Catalonia, with his iconic time at Camp Nou pulling him back.
This summer, after formalizing a mutual exit with the Parisians, rumours of the Brazilian finally fulfilling his desire to reunite with Barcelona began to do the rounds.
But as per the latest developments, the player’s move to Al-Hilal appears imminent, and the Barça dream is no longer an option for Neymar.
Neymar unwilling to arrive as long as Xavi is in charge
Neymar’s transfer to Barcelona fell through in large part due to Xavi’s lack of enthusiasm for the deal.
The coach was not in favor of the signing, contrary to the view held by significant members of the Barca board.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano on the Here We Go Podcast (h/t Martin Minan) Neymar said that he would not return to Barcelona as long as Xavi is the manager.
As a result of the Barcelona coach holding reservations about his potential arrival and not giving the green light until the end, it appears that the 31-year-old has harboured resentment over Xavi’s decision.
The South American was eager to join forces with the Catalan giants and made his desire to do so clear.
Sergi Roberto, one of Barcelona’s four captains this season, even shared Neymar’s excitement to don the Blaugrana jersey this summer as he provided a brief insight into his conversation with the Brazilian.
However, the 31-year-old’s attitude issues and off-field issues were topics of concern for Xavi, who was not looking to disrupt the harmony in the dressing room.
With Neymar’s move falling flat, it is unsurprising to see him turn down the opportunity to return to Barcelona as long as Xavi is in charge, the man who essentially blocked his potential comeback.
