Neimar explained why he decided to leave Barcelona and go to Paris Saint-Germain.

Neimar, who signed a five-year contract with PSG, explained his decision to leave Barcelona with a desire to get a new challenge.

In addition, the 25-year-old Brazilian admitted that he went against his father's will and asked for that support.

"The life of an athlete is full of challenges. With some we have to face, and others are the result of our decisions, "wrote Neimar in Instagram.

"For me, Barcelona was more than just a challenge. She was the dream of a child who played for these stars in video games. I arrived in Catalonia at the age of 21, where I was full of new challenges. I still remember my first day at the club, as I shared the locker room with my idols, such as Messi, Valdes, Xavi, Iniesta, Puyol, Piquet, Busquets and many others.. As I was waiting for the game for a club that is "more than a club". Barcelona is a whole nation that represents Catalonia! ".

"I had the privilege of playing with the greatest athletes I've ever seen. And I'm sure that in my life I will not see anyone better than Lionel Messi, who became my friend on the field and beyond. I'm proud to be playing with you. For me it's an honor ".

"Our attacking trio with Messi and Luis Suarez created history. I won everything that an athlete can win. I experienced unforgettable moments! I lived in a city that is larger than the city - it's the homeland. I love Barcelona and I love Catalonia ".

"But the athlete, me, needs calls. And the second time in my life I went against my father. Dad, I understand and respect your opinion, but I made a decision and ask for your support, as it always was ".

"Barcelona and Catalonia will always be in my heart, but I need new challenges. I accepted the PSG proposal in search of new achievements and I want to help the club win the trophies that fans so crave for. They gave me a bold career plan, and I'm ready for this challenge ".

"I thank the beautiful blaugranas fans for their love, and all the players with whom I shared the locker room, for all that they taught me".

"Now my heart tells me that it's time to leave. PSG will be my new home for the next years, and I will try to pay their faith in me by hard work. I look forward to the support of all those who have been with me since 2009. Fans, my friends, professionals who surround me and my family, who already suffered during this period of my career. Now you deserve peace ".

"This is a very difficult decision, but it is accepted with the maturity that I accumulated over these 25 years".

"Barcelona, ??thank you for everything! PSG, here I am! God bless and protect us all!".

Publication from Nj ???? ?? neymarjr (@neymarjr) Aug 3 2017 at 12:53 PDT.