Neymar claims Mbappe's jealousy over Messi strained PSG trio

Brazilian forward Neymar has suggested that Kylian Mbappé became "jealous" of his bond with Lionel Messi during their time together at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Speaking on a podcast hosted by former Brazil forward Romario, Neymar pointed to ego clashes as a key reason the star-studded trio failed to click at the French club.

The 32-year-old, who left PSG for Saudi club Al-Hilal in 2023, initially shared a strong connection with Mbappé when the Frenchman joined the club in 2017. However, Neymar claimed their relationship soured after Messi's arrival in 2021.

Reflecting on their initial years together, Neymar said Mbappé was instrumental when he first joined PSG. "We had a good relationship at the start. I always told him he would become one of the best, and I tried to help him in every way," Neymar recalled. "He used to visit my house, and we would go out to dinner together."

However, Neymar revealed a shift in Mbappé's behaviour after Messi joined PSG from Barcelona. Neymar and Messi had previously formed a close friendship during their successful years at Barcelona from 2013 to 2017.

"When Messi arrived, I think Mbappé became a bit jealous," Neymar admitted. "He didn't want to share me with anyone, and that's when the arguments and the changes in his behaviour began."

The Brazilian highlighted that a lack of teamwork was the core issue preventing the trio from reaching their potential.

"You can't play alone. Even if you believe you're the best, you still need teammates to give you the ball," Neymar explained. "Egos got in the way, and that's why it didn't work. Football is about running and helping each other, or you can't win."

Neymar, who has struggled with injuries since moving to Saudi Arabia, declined to address speculation about a potential return to Brazil or a move to Major League Soccer. He noted that while he is happy in Saudi Arabia, his future remains uncertain.

"In six months, everything can change," he said.