It is known that Real Madrid always wanted Neymar to play for them, but Barcelona won the race back in 2013 to sign the Brazilian and the Merengues president has just revealed the reason why.
The rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona has always been really fierce and of course the fight for players is part of that. In 2011, both teams tried to sign Neymar, but two years later he decided to join the Blaugranas and now the Merengues president has revealed the reason behind his decision.
There is a huge history between the two clubs regarding the players who have worn both shirts. Some big names like Ronaldo, Figo, Luis Enrique among others have suited up for both Barcelona and Real Madrid so the clubs are always fighting for the best pieces available in the market.
In 2011, Spanish clubs had a new target: Neymar. The Brazilian star was tempted by both teams but in the end it was Barcelona who signed him and now the Real Madrid president has revealed what they did to win the race.
Florentino Perez reveals why Neymar decided to sign with Barcelona instead of Real Madrid
Florentino Perez is probably one of the most successful soccer presidents around the world. He has built some super squads throughout history, but of course he has failures and Neymar is undoubtedly one of those.
In 2011, Neymar was a rising star in Brazil with Santos FC. Tons of clubs made him the most valuable target, but Real Madrid and Barcelona were the top candidates to acquire him.
After a long fight that lasted two years, Barcelona won the race against their biggest rivals and signed the Brazilian forward. Now, Florentino Perez revealed why Neymar took the decision in 2013 to join the Blaugranas.
“Back in 2011, Real Madrid sent an offer to Santos for Neymar. I think it was around 45 millions,” said Florentino Perez after the Ballon d’Or ceremony. “Players go to where they want. Neymar wanted Barcelona and that’s why he signed with them. Our offer in 2011 was for 45 millions; not 60 millions as it was said.”