The world of soccer is no stranger to big contracts. High-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar have all signed massive deals that have made headlines across the globe. However, in recent years, one contract has risen above them all in terms of sheer size and significance – the deal between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Brazilian superstar Neymar.
In 2017, PSG made headlines when they signed Neymar from Barcelona for a world-record transfer fee of €222 million ($263 million). The deal was already monumental, but it was nothing compared to the contract that Neymar signed with the French club. According to reports, Neymar`s contract with PSG is worth a staggering €700 million ($828 million) over five years, making it the largest soccer contract in history.
So, what does this massive contract entail? For starters, Neymar reportedly earns €36.8 million ($43.6 million) per year, making him the highest-paid soccer player in the world. In addition to his base salary, Neymar also receives bonuses and incentives that push his earnings even higher. He also reportedly has a say in the club`s player recruitment, and his personal marketing and image rights are handled by PSG.
The significance of the Neymar contract goes beyond just the sheer size of the deal. It also represents a shift in power in the soccer world. For years, the top clubs in Europe – Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester United, among others – have been able to attract the biggest names in the sport with massive contracts and the promise of winning major trophies. However, PSG`s willingness to pay such an exorbitant fee for Neymar showed that there was a new player in town, one that was willing to spend whatever it took to achieve its goals.
Of course, there are critics who argue that the Neymar deal is a prime example of soccer`s excesses. They point to the fact that PSG`s owners, Qatar Sports Investments, have poured billions of dollars into the club in an effort to turn it into a global powerhouse. They also argue that the money spent on Neymar`s contract could be better used to address issues like youth development and stadium infrastructure.
Despite these criticisms, there`s no denying that the Neymar contract is a game-changer in the world of soccer. Whether it will usher in a new era of exorbitant salaries and transfer fees remains to be seen – but for now, it`s safe to say that Neymar`s €700 million contract is the largest and most significant in the history of the sport.