France Feels no pressure for the fee

After completing his world record 222 million euros move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar is adamant that he moved to France for a new challenge, not for money.

The Brazilian was presented as a PSG player on Friday and said his motivation for the switch was his own happiness and to win new titles.

"I came to PSG because I wanted something new," he said.

"It was not because I was not the star at Barcelona or that I did not feel valued.

"The time was right for a change and I have come here for new challenges."

Neymar has become the most expensive player in the history of football with his summer switch, but insists that there is no additional pressure that comes with the fee, while also adding that money was not the motivation for his move.

"I have never moved for money," he said.

"If people think I am moving for money then they do not know me.

"I do not feel any more pressure because of the money spent on me; I weigh 69 kilos and I have nothing else on my shoulders."

Many Barcelona fans have seen his exit as a betrayal, with some - including former president Joan Gaspart - comparing his move to Luis Figo's decision to join Real Madrid in 2000.

"I am sad to see comparisons with Figo.

"I have not disrespected anyone and everyone is free to go wherever and whenever they want to and I just want to thank the club and the fans again."

The Brazilian has been criticised for taking a step down to Ligue 1, but he himself does not see it as such.

"I've heard a lot of people talk badly about Ligue 1.

"I have spoken to a lot of players who have played here and the truth is that there are no easy matches.

"It will be a challenge to get the French title back again."