Why is Neymar joining the MLS?

Neymar Jr has been hinting over these past few weeks at a return to join his former teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in the MLS, bringing the MSN trio back together. His comments to CNN immediately excited soccer fans, with many hoping for an MSN reunion at Inter Miami. In addition to Messi and Suarez, he has other former teammates that played with him at FC Barcelona, such as Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. 

Why is Neymar Jr close to join the MLS?

Neymar is keen to return to reunite with Messi and Suarez, after previously suggesting that it would be incredible to revive this trio in the MLS. During his time at FC Barcelona, Neymar had the peak of his career alongside the MSN trio. Throughout his four year stay with FC Barcelona, Neymar enjoyed a successful period at the club, winning multiple trophies, including the famous treble in 2015. While at FC Barcelona, he won 9 Major trophies, including 1 Champions League title and two La Liga titles. 

In the attack, he played alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, where he was in his best form of his life. This is the main reason Neymar Jr wants to reunite with his former teammates, to replicate the success they achieved together, but this time with Inter Miami. Since joining Al Ahli from PSG in the summer of 2023, Neymar has struggled with injuries, spending most of his time on the sidelines and playing only a limited amount of minutes. Inter Miami's Owner and President, David Beckham, is determined to bring Neymar, aiming to boost the club's chances of winning the league. Neymar has dropped numerous hints throughout the past year, where when in Bahrain for the Grand Prix, he said that he is hopeful of playing alongside Messi and Suarez again one day.

Neymar Jr, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez celebrating their Champions League Final 3-1 win against Juventus in 2015

Neymar Jr chances for the upcoming World Cup

In his latest interview, Neymar Jr suggested that the upcoming 2026 World Cup will probably be his last for Brazil. Speaking with CNN, these were his comments on the upcoming World Cup:

 "I will try. I want to be there. I will do everything I can to be part of the national team," Neymar said on the 2026 World Cup.

"I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance and I will do everything I can to play in it." 

This is the main reason why Neymar Jr wants to go to the MLS, to regain his best form and secure a strong chance of playing in the 2026 World Cup. It is looking more likely that this famous reunion will happen, as Inter Miami are keen to bring him to the US to join other superstars. 

Neymar Jr celebrating scoring against Bolivia after becoming Brazil's FIFA all time record leading goal scorer

Neymar Jr Visiting Miami Frequently

Neymar Jr has been visiting Miami frequently in recent years, further fueling speculation about his desire to join Inter Miami this year. His most recent visit was in March, during which he attended a Marlins baseball game, a Heat basketball game, and had dinner with Inter Miami President and former Manchester United legend, David Beckham.

Neymar Jr pictured with Inter Miami's President David Beckham and his wife Victoria Beckham in Miami

Not long ago, Neymar posted a photo with his son, wearing Messi's Inter Miami shirt. Also, last year, Neymar Jr bought a piece of land in Miami worth a staggering $26m, suggesting that that he plans to build a house there if he joins Inter Miami in the coming months. All these actions lead to the fact that Neymar Jr wants to join Inter Miami, with the possibility seeming more likely each day.  

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