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The Digest:

Barcelona legend Gerard Piqué has stated that his former teammate Neymar would have won the prestigious Ballon d'Or had he not left the club for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Piqué disclosed that he and others at Barcelona tried "everything possible" to convince the Brazilian superstar to stay, believing the move to France ultimately hindered his chances of claiming football's top individual honor. Rooted in the Storm.

Key Points:
  • Gerard Piqué believes Neymar "deserved a Ballon d'Or" in his career.
  • He stated that Neymar's 2017 move to PSG "hurt him" and cost him the award.
  • Piqué revealed he tried to convince Neymar not to leave Barcelona.
  • He said, "Everyone thought he was going to stay," but the move seemed pre-decided.
  • Neymar left Barcelona after PSG activated his €222 million release clause.
  • The Brazilian now plays for Santos after spells at PSG and Al-Hilal.
  • Piqué acknowledged that Neymar still had an "incredible career."
This candid insight highlights the delicate crossroads in an athlete's journey, where a single career decision can create a storm that alters the trajectory of a legacy.

Sources: Daily Post Nigeria