Luis Suarez’s previous advice to former Barcelona colleague Neymar Jr. emerged on his birthday (February 5).
The Latin American combo, together with Argentina captain Lionel Messi, established a formidable attacking combination at the Catalan club, known as the ‘MSN’.
They won the European treble in 2014-15, their first season together. However, the relationship came to an end as the Brazilian forward departed Azulgrana to join Paris Saint-Germain for a world record €222 million in 2017.
Last year, Suarez spoke to Placar TV about the counsel he and Lionel Messi offered Neymar. Suarez remarked (per ESPN):
“Ney, if you want to win everything, remain with us [in Barcelona]… Or go to England, preferably to [Manchester] City, since football is better there’… if Neymar had remained at Barcelona, he would have won a Ballon d’Or without a doubt.”
Suarez and Messi agreed that playing in a more competitive league, such as La Liga or the Premier League, would have increased Neymar’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
In 186 games for Barcelona, the Brazilian scored 105 goals and assisted 76 times.
The highly skilled winger enjoyed a remarkable career with PSG, contributing significantly with 118 goals and 77 assists in 173 games. Despite these achievements, the 32-year-old has recently made the decision to depart from European football. His next adventure awaits in the Saudi Pro League, where he is set to join the ranks of the formidable Al-Hilal during the summer of 2023.
Luis Suarez's Past Remarks on Retiring Alongside Neymar and Messi at Barcelona
Luis Suarez, Neymar, and Lionel Messi not only formed a fearsome offensive three on the field, but they also enjoyed a tight connection off it. The Uruguayan striker once said that they agreed to retire together.
Last year, the former Barcelona striker said that he had decided with his old attacking teammates to retire together. Suarez said:
“We also agreed on it with Ney. We aspire to finish our careers at the same club. Purely enjoy the thrill of football, play it as we like, and retire together. I’m not sure about Ney, but Messi and I will surely be there together.”
Suarez has moved to Inter Miami and is once again colleagues with Lionel Messi. As promised, the couple seems to be planning a joint retirement. Neymar, the second member of the famed three, now plays for Al-Hilal.