Neymar Ends £78.6m Nike Partnership, Joins Puma

Neymar has confirmed signing for Puma after ending his £78.6million partnership with Nike after 15 years.

The PSG superstar will now wear Puma's legendary ‘Puma King football boots' next season.

Neymar announced the partnership with a post on social media, writing: ‘The KING is Back'.

Speaking on his decision to join Puma, the 28-year-old striker said he was influenced by stars such as Pele and Diego Maradona – who have history with the manufacturer

‘’I grew up watching videos of great football legends such as Pele, Cruyff, Matthaus, Eusebio and Maradona,' he said.

‘'These were the KING's of the pitch, the KING's of my sport. I wish to bring back the legacy that those athletes created on the pitch. They each played in PUMA, and each of them created their magic in The KING.'

‘'Every time I lace my boots, my KING boots, I will do anything to achieve all of my dreams to honour my name and that of all those great ones who wore the KING before me. This will be my PUMA history. The KING is back!'’

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Neymar's switch of allegiances could be detrimental to the American company, who had reportedly signed the striker until 2022 until he terminated his contract.   

This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago

Efe Bridget is a writer at GoalBall. She is a graduate of Mass Communication with 12 years of experience working with reputable publications.