Neymar Jr. Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 16, 2025
Few footballers in the 21st century have captured the world’s imagination quite like Neymar Jr. With dazzling footwork, electrifying pace, and a flair that borders on artistry, Neymar has been a symbol of Brazilian joy, creativity, and global stardom.
From his humble beginnings in São Paulo to starring for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Brazil national team, Neymar’s journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs, controversies, injuries, and resilience.
Then: The Boy from Mogi das Cruzes – A Talent Forged in the Favelas (1992–2013)
1. Early Life and Roots
Born on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, a suburb of São Paulo, Brazil, Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in him a deep love for football.
His father, Neymar Sr., was a former professional footballer and later his agent, guiding his son’s career from an early age.
Neymar began playing street football as a toddler, mastering futsal-style moves, close control, and improvisation—hallmarks of the Brazilian ginga (flow). By age 11, he joined Santos FC’s youth academy, one of Brazil’s most storied clubs.
2. Rise at Santos – The New Pelé?
Neymar Jr. made his professional debut for Santos in 2009 at just 17 years old. It didn’t take long for the world to notice.
By 2011, he led Santos to their first Copa Libertadores title in 48 years, scoring crucial goals and earning comparisons to legends like Pelé and Ronaldinho. That same year, he won the South American Footballer of the Year award and was named in the FIFPro World XI.
His stats were staggering:
- 136 goals in 225 appearances for Santos
- Known for step-overs, rainbow flicks, and long-range strikes
- A symbol of modern Brazilian football—skillful, expressive, and fearless
By 2013, he was one of the most sought-after players on the planet.
Related: Luka Modrić Then and Now
The Rise: Barcelona and Global Stardom (2013–2017)
1. Move to FC Barcelona – Joining the Gods
In June 2013, after a controversial transfer saga, Neymar Jr. signed with FC Barcelona for a reported €88 million—one of the most expensive transfers in history at the time.
The pressure was immense. Could he live up to the hype? Could he play alongside Lionel Messi?
The answer was a resounding yes.
2. The MSN Era – Football’s Greatest Attack
By 2014–2015, Neymar was part of the legendary MSN trio—Messi, Suárez, Neymar—one of the most devastating attacking units in football history.
Highlights with Barcelona:
- UEFA Champions League Winner (2015) – Scored in the final against Juventus
- La Liga Champion (2016, 2018, 2019)
- Copa del Rey Winner (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021)
- FIFA Club World Cup Winner (2015)
Neymar evolved from a winger into a complete forward, contributing:
- 105 goals and 76 assists in 186 appearances
- Crucial goals in knockout stages of the Champions League
- A reputation as a big-game player
He was no longer just a flashy dribbler—he was a winner.
3. Ballon d’Or Contender and Global Icon
Neymar consistently ranked among the top 3 in Ballon d’Or voting (2015, 2017), peaking at 3rd place. He became a global ambassador for brands like:
- Nike
- Puma
- Gillette
- Burger King
His lifestyle, fashion, and social media presence made him one of the most marketable athletes in the world.
Related: Harry Kane Then and Now
Now: The PSG Chapter – Reign in Paris and Personal Trials (2017–2025)
1. Record-Breaking Move to Paris Saint-Germain
In August 2017, Neymar stunned the football world by triggering his €222 million release clause to join Paris Saint-Germain—the most expensive transfer in history.
The move was bold, controversial, and symbolic: Neymar was no longer Messi’s sidekick. He was the main star.
2. Dominance in Ligue 1
At PSG, Neymar Jr. became the creative heartbeat of the team:
- 87 goals and 104 assists in 173 appearances (as of 2024)
- 5 Ligue 1 titles (2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023)
- Multiple Coupe de France and Coupe de la Ligue wins
- Trophée des Champions victories
He formed a fearsome trio with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi (2021–2023), though Champions League success remained elusive.
3. The Quest for a Champions League Title
Despite PSG’s domestic dominance, the UEFA Champions League has been a source of heartbreak:
- Quarterfinal exits in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
- Controversial losses to Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich
Neymar has often been blamed or praised depending on the result, facing intense scrutiny for his emotional reactions, injuries, and perceived lack of leadership in key moments.
4. Injuries and Resilience
Neymar’s career has been plagued by recurring injuries:
- Ankle fractures
- Back problems
- Muscle strains
These setbacks have limited his availability and fueled criticism. Yet, every time he returns, he reminds the world of his genius—with moments of magic that only he can produce.
Related: Lionel Messi Then and Now
International Career: Brazil’s Golden Son
1. National Team Legacy
Neymar Jr. has been the face of Brazilian football since his debut in 2010. With over 125 caps and 79 goals, he is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Pelé.
Key moments:
- Copa América Winner (2019) – Brazil’s first in 19 years
- Olympic Gold Medal (2016) – Scored the winning penalty in the final
- FIFA World Cup 2014 – Suffered a devastating spinal fracture in the quarterfinal, ruling him out of the rest of the tournament
- World Cup 2022 – Scored 2 goals, but Brazil was eliminated in the quarterfinals
Despite individual brilliance, Brazil has not won a World Cup with Neymar—a narrative that follows him relentlessly.
2. Leadership and Criticism
As captain, Neymar has faced criticism for:
- Emotional outbursts
- Perceived lack of discipline
- Over-reliance on him by the team
Yet, his teammates and fans defend him, citing his sacrifice, creativity, and unmatched skill.
Related: Mohamed Salah Then and Now
Personal Life and Cultural Impact
1. Lifestyle and Brand
Neymar is more than a footballer—he’s a global brand:
- Over 220 million followers on Instagram (one of the most-followed athletes)
- Star of viral moments, music videos, and reality-style content
- Owner of Neymar Jr. Academy football schools worldwide
He’s known for his luxury lifestyle, including:
- Supercars
- Private jets
- Lavish parties
- Close friendships with celebrities like Anitta, Rihanna, and Kylian Mbappé
2. Controversies and Growth
Neymar has faced scrutiny for:
- Simulation and diving
- Celebrations seen as excessive
- Legal issues (tax fraud in Spain, settled in 2018)
- Social media drama
Yet, in recent years, he has shown greater maturity, focusing on fatherhood (his son, Davi Lucca, is a constant presence in his life) and legacy.
Related: Cristiano Ronaldo Then and Now
Legacy and Influence
Neymar Jr. has redefined what it means to be a modern footballer:
- Skill and showmanship combined
- Global fame beyond the pitch
- A bridge between street football and elite sport
He’s inspired a generation of young players to express themselves, not just conform. His elastico, rainbow flicks, and no-look passes are now part of football’s visual language.
Moreover, he’s helped popularize Brazilian football in the digital age, using social media to connect with fans like no player before him.
Conclusion: Neymar Jr. – Then and Now
- Then: A 17-year-old from Santos, dazzling crowds with samba-style football, dreaming of greatness.
- Now: A global icon, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, PSG legend, and one of the most talented, controversial, and influential players of his generation.
Neymar’s journey hasn’t been perfect. It’s been marked by injuries, criticism, and unfulfilled dreams. But through it all, he has remained unapologetically himself—a player who dances through defenders, celebrates with joy, and plays with his heart on his sleeve.
As he enters the final chapter of his career—possibly returning to Santos in 2024 or 2025—one thing is certain:
Neymar Jr. didn’t just play football.
He made it a spectacle.
⚽ “I play for the love of the game, for my country, and for every kid who dares to be different.” – Neymar Jr.
Related: Kevin De Bruyne Then and Now