Neymar says he is convinced Lionel Messi's move to Major League Soccer will dramatically change football in the United States.
The six-time Ballon d'Or winner will soon officially join Inter Miami, having been the subject of interest from former side Barcelona and Saudi Arabian outfit Al Hilal after it was revealed he wouldn't extend his stay at Paris Saint-Germain.
Neymar was reunited with Messi in 2021 when the Argentine was forced to leave Barça and revealed he has previously spoken with him about life in Miami.
He told ESPN: "I'm certain that Leo is going to change the league in the United States.
"I believe the league will become a lot more popular. So everyone has to take advantage and enjoy watching him play because unfortunately nothing lasts forever.
READ MORE ON LIONEL MESSI'S MOVE TO INTER MIAMI
"I'm sad and happy at the same time. I already knew. Messi is one of my best friends, a gift that soccer has given me. I had the opportunity to get to know him, to play with him and then, to build a beautiful friendship. So, I knew that he wanted to come here [Miami], and we spoke about it. I told him he was going to be very happy in the city, because of the style of life, the opportunity to come to live and play here in Miami."
Neymar has been in the US supporting the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals around the time Messi's decision was made and the Brazilian himself could be on the move this summer.
Barça manager Xavi has ruled out a return to Camp Nou but 90min understands Neymar's representatives have held talks over a move to Saudi Arabia even with two years and a possible third still to run on his PSG contract.
LISTEN NOW
On this week's edition of Talking Transfers, part of the 90min podcast network, Scott Saunders is joined by Toby Cudworth and Graeme Bailey to discuss Ange Postecoglou's appointment at Spurs, Man Utd chasing Rasmus Hojlund, Harry Kane to Real Madrid, Lionel Messi & more!
If you can't see this embed, click here to listen to the podcast!
This article was originally published on 90min as Neymar reveals what he told Lionel Messi about Miami.
