Paris Saint-Germain cutting Neymar’s bonuses for skipping training

Paris Saint-Germain have taken necessary action against Neymar following his continued absence from the club’s preseason training. 

Last year, the controversial website Football Leaks claimed that the French club financially rewards Neymar for good behaviour. The Brazilian, as a result, is reportedly paid close to €375,000 only by applauding fans. 

However, Paris Saint-Germain immediately denied these claims, saying, “It is for exemplary behaviour towards sponsors, opponents, referees and officials and for punctuality and effort in training. Even respect towards the media is one of the parts of this behavioural bonus.”

Such bonuses and clauses have been inserted in most of the Paris Saint-Germain player contracts, including the likes of Edinson Cavani and Marco Verratti and former players Adrien Rabiot and Serge Aurier. This is common throughout France, as clubs are not allowed to fine players by cutting their fixed weekly-wages. Instead, they can withhold such bonuses which are directed towards charity. 

Neymar, however, will not be eligible to claim this month’s bonus following his refusal to join the Ligue 1 champions’ preseason camp. The 27-year old has been heavily linked with a move back to Barcelona, but any agreement between the two clubs has still not been reached due to Neymar’s massive transfer fee. 

Paris Saint-Germain are keen to keep hold of their star player but they will not be able to refuse any offer from Barcelona. 

Neymar missed out on Brazil’s Copa America win last week as he was ruled out of the tournament with an ankle injury. But a video has surfaced online, which shows the footballer playing beach volleyball. As a result, his failure to show up at the Paris Saint-Germain training ground has been questioned.

Brazil’s team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, in a statement to UOL, confirmed that Neymar is now fit. “If he was at a club, he’d be in the process of transitioning [to full training]. He’d be out on the pitch and starting ball work”, he said.

Paris Saint-Germain are currently preparing for their preseason friendlies against Dynamo Dresden and FC Nuremburg in Germany next week onwards. Thomas Tuchel’s side then travel to China to face Serie A giants Inter Milan and complete their tour against Australian outfit Sydney FC.