There has been increasing speculation about Neymar’s potential return to Barcelona in the summer of 2025. With Joan Laporta reportedly planning a marquee signing to celebrate the club’s return to the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou, Neymar’s name has been thrown into the mix.
While Erling Haaland remains the club’s top priority, Neymar has emerged as a possible alternative due to his contract at Al-Hilal nearing its end. However, re-signing the Brazilian superstar may not be in Barcelona’s best interest. Here are three key reasons why the club should avoid making this move.
1. Persistent Injury Problems
One of the biggest concerns with Neymar is his long history of injuries, which has severely limited his playing time in recent years. Since moving to Al-Hilal in 2023, he has only managed five appearances due to a serious ACL injury. His time at Paris Saint-Germain was also plagued by frequent injuries, causing him to miss extended periods each season.
For example, during the 2018/19 season, Neymar missed 33 games due to various injuries. In the 2021/22 season, an ankle issue kept him out for 76 days, causing him to miss 15 matches. The following year, ankle surgery sidelined him for 130 days, ruling him out of 17 games.
Given Barcelona’s need for stability, relying on a player who has spent so much time on the sidelines would be a major gamble. The club requires consistency in their squad, and Neymar’s injury-prone nature makes him an unreliable option.
2. No Place in the Current Squad
While Neymar’s versatility allows him to play multiple attacking roles, his preferred position on the left wing is already well-covered at Barcelona. The team currently has Ferran Torres and Raphinha occupying that position, with both players playing key roles under Hansi Flick.
Moreover, Barcelona are expected to pursue Nico Williams in 2025, further strengthening their attacking options. Adding Neymar into the mix would not only create unnecessary competition but also block the development of younger players.
Barcelona must prioritize the progression of their emerging talents rather than bringing in a veteran player whose presence could disrupt the squad’s balance.
3. Financial Constraints and High Salary
Perhaps the most significant reason to avoid signing Neymar is the financial burden he would bring. At Al-Hilal, he earns an astronomical €100 million per year—five times what he was paid at PSG.
Barcelona are still dealing with financial difficulties, making it nearly impossible to afford Neymar’s wages. Even if he were willing to take a pay cut, his salary would still be too high for the club’s current budget.
The club has been actively reducing its wage bill, as seen with the departures of high-earning players like Ilkay Gündogan. Bringing Neymar back would be a step backward financially and could jeopardize Barcelona’s efforts to maintain long-term financial stability.
4. Dressing Room Tension – His past exit from Barça wasn’t smooth, and his return could stir unnecessary controversy within the squad.
5. Declining Form – Neymar is not the same explosive player he was years ago. His performances have been inconsistent, raising doubts about his ability to deliver at the highest level.
6. Focus & Commitment – Questions about Neymar’s discipline and lifestyle choices have always lingered. Would he be fully committed to Barça’s long-term project?
7. Better Alternatives – Instead of bringing back an aging star, Barça could invest in younger, more promising talents who can serve the club for years to come.
Conclusion
While Neymar’s return might seem appealing to some fans, it would be an unwise decision for Barcelona. His injury history, lack of a clear role in the squad, and excessive salary make him a poor fit for a club focused on rebuilding and maintaining financial stability.
Instead of looking to the past, Barcelona should focus on shaping a future-oriented squad with younger, more reliable talents. Given the club’s current situation, re-signing Neymar would be more of a setback than a step forward.
