Neymar’s cleats have been a topic of much discussion in the football world, especially since his switch from Nike to Puma in 2020. During his early and most illustrious years at Barcelona, and notably when he scored the decisive penalty to clinch Olympic gold for Brazil in front of Maracana’s 100,000-strong crowd, Neymar was synonymous with Nike.
However, this longstanding association ended, paving the way for a new chapter with Puma. Neymar switched from Nike to Puma in 2020. This change came after a 15-year partnership with Nike, marking a significant shift in his career in terms of brand endorsement. The Brazilian superstar credits his decision to wear Puma’s silo to watching videos of football legends Pele, Cruyff, and Maradona, who all donned the Puma King.
He remarks on how these players dominated the pitch, aspiring to emulate their greatness and bring back the allure of the Puma King Platinum. Neymar’s move to Puma isn’t just about changing brands; it’s a commitment to continuing the legacy of football’s greatest, as he steps into the shoes once worn by the kings of the game.
Neymar Cleats Puma Debut: Embracing the Legacy of the Legendary Puma King
Neymar’s initiation into the Puma family started with the King Platinum, a model with a rich history, notably worn by Pele. Redesigned in 2019, the Puma King Platinum was revamped with a sleek, modern silhouette and crafted with premium K-leather. Its Rapidsprint outsole enhanced the boot’s lightweight profile, blending traditional elegance with contemporary design. Puma’s campaign celebrating Neymar’s choice of the King Platinum was aptly titled ‘Return of the King’, marking a significant moment in football gear history.
Neymar’s Cleats: Puma’s Historic Legacy Continues
The new PUMA King, endorsed by Neymar, isn’t just a modern marvel; it’s a revival of a legacy that dates back over half a century. The iconic PUMA King has been a symbol of footballing greatness, worn by legends who have shaped the sport’s history.
1966: Eusebio’s Puma Revolution
In 1966, the football world was mesmerized by Portuguese striker Eusebio, the top scorer at the World Cup in England. Donning what would become Neymar’s cleats’ predecessors, Eusebio showcased the prowess of PUMA footwear. In honor of his phenomenal performance, PUMA launched the iconic PUMA KING EUSEBIO in 1968, marking a new era in football boots.
1970: Pele’s Puma Triumph
When Pele stepped onto the pitch in the 1970 World Cup, it wasn’t just glory of Brazil jersey on the line; it was also a moment of truth for Neymar’s cleats’ ancestors, the PUMA King.
Revolutionized for enhanced performance, these boots were a testament to PUMA’s commitment to excellence. Pele’s success in these boots, leading Brazil to a historic third World Cup win, cemented the PUMA King’s reputation.
1974: Cruyff’s Puma Elegance
Johan Cruyff’s preference for the PUMA King boots was evident by 1974, the year he signed a sponsorship with Puma. His legendary status was further validated when he was named the ‘European Player of the Century’ in 1999. Cruyff’s journey with the PUMA King paralleled the Netherlands’ impressive, albeit title-elusive, World Cup campaigns in 1974 and 1978.
1986: Maradona’s Puma Magic
Diego Maradona’s iconic 1986 World Cup performance in Argentina jersey, marked by unforgettable goals, was underpinned by the reliability of Puma King cleats. Maradona’s ‘Goal of the Century‘ and the infamous ‘Hand of God‘ goal, both against England, were moments that highlighted the Puma King’s integral role in football history.
1990: Matthaus’ Puma Glory
In the 1990 World Cup, German ace Lothar Matthaus also graced the pitch in PUMA King cleats, leading his team to victory against Argentina in the final. Matthaus’ achievements in these cleats are a testament to the enduring quality and performance of the PUMA King line.
Neymar’s Quest for Glory
Neymar’s cleats, the new PUMA King, represent more than just footwear. They symbolize a storied legacy, one that includes World Cup victories and football legends like Pele. Neymar, already an Olympic champion and Copa America winner, now faces the challenge of reaching World Cup glory.
While an injury might keep him from the Copa America 2024, Neymar’s cleats will have another chance to make history in the 2026 World Cup, potentially following in the footsteps of Pele.
In the 2022 World Cup, Neymar made his debut wearing Puma cleats, marking a significant moment in his career. For insights into his thoughts and experiences during this pivotal tournament in Qatar, fans can turn to Netflix’s “Captains of the World,” which provides a deeper look into his journey and reflections.
The endorsement by Neymar has undeniably increased the visibility and popularity of the Puma King Platinum. With a marquee player like Neymar regularly showcasing the boots on the field, Puma has successfully revitalized the classic King line, bridging the gap between the golden age of football and the modern era. The Puma King Platinum, once a symbol of football royalty, now continues its legacy on the feet of one of the game’s most dynamic and celebrated talents.
Beyond Neymar Cleats
Neymar’s cleats contract with Puma has been instrumental in elevating Neymar’s net worth. For insights into Neymar’s position among the world’s richest footballers, delve into this article.
Curious about Neymar’s jersey as well as Neymar’s cleats? Explore this article for a detailed look into the world of Neymar’s jersey: