Neymar’s exit to Paris Saint-Germain was because of Lionel Messi, insists ex-Barcelona team-mate Jeremy Mathieu
DESPITE claims to the contrary from Neymar, a former team-mate claims the Brazilian left Barcelona because of Lionel Messi.
Paris Saint-Germain rocked the Nou Camp giants when they met the star's release clause and signed him for £198million last month.
Although there were mega wages on offer, it was stated that the South American had tired of living in the shadow of the Argentine.
Neymar hit back at that suggestion and was adamant the move was about helping PSG to glory.
However, ex-Barca colleague Jeremy Mathieu insists otherwise.
The 33-year-old, who currently plays for Sporting Lisbon, told EFE: "At no moment did people think he was going to leave Barca.
"But that's football, it's like that. It's his decision.
"My opinion is that he left Barca because he was behind Leo.
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"I think he wants to win the Ballon d'Or and at the moment he's happy in Paris because he's scoring goals."
Neymar has made a bright start in his quest to break Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance of the Ballon d'Or.
The 25-year-old has fired five goals in his first six matches for the French giants.
Meanwhile, Barca are coping well with his loss.
They currently lead La Liga by five points, and are seven ahead of rivals Real Madrid, after winning their first five matches.
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