Wagner Ribeiro is one of the most known names in the agent market. The Brazilian worked with stars such as Robinho, Kaká and Neymar. In a recent interview with Flashscore, Ribeiro talks about his years with Neymar, and his influence in the player’s career moves.
About Real Madrid’s interest in Neymar, Ribeiro explains, “We never had anything signed, it was always on the basis of conversation. Before he went to Barcelona, I got into a fight because I wanted him to go to Real Madrid, who paid more. But players like Messi, Piqué and Suárez persuaded him to sign for Barcelona. I had a good relationship with Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid’s president, and I told him that I would take Neymar there. I created a problem for myself.”
Probably, Barça’s board knew about Ribeiro’s opinion, “when he went to Barcelona, I travelled with his family. When I got there, I was sidelined at the presentation because the Barcelona press didn’t like me. In my view, Real Madrid had a better structure, it was a team that suited him better and could make him the best in the world”. However, “he opted for Barcelona and won everything there.”
About Ney’s controversial departure for PSG, Ribeiro explains his crucial role, “the deal for PSG began with me introducing Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the club’s owner, to Neymar’s father. The first offer from PSG was covered by Barcelona, only after the transfer was confirmed.”
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