Wijnaldum admits he will make more money at PSG than Barcelona
Speaking ahead of Holland’s opening Euro 2020 match against Ukraine, Georginio Wijnaldum has opened up on his move to Paris Saint-Germain.
The 30-year-old looked set to join Spanish giants Barcelona after his Liverpool contract expired, but ultimately chose PSG instead after they swooped in for his signature.
Wijnaldum spent five years at Anfield, winning one Premier League title and a Champions League.
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Speaking about his move, the Dutch international said: “Barcelona’s rejection was difficult, I negotiated with them for four weeks but Paris were faster and more decisive. Their project convinced me.”
The midfielder was asked whether the wages being offered played a factor in his decision: “Yes, I admit I’m going to make more money in Paris, but my choice has nothing to do with the money.”
“It was a difficult choice, we were negotiating with Barcelona for four weeks but we didn’t reach an agreement, Paris came and it was more decisive and faster, and their project also liked it. But I have to say, I thought I was going to Barcelona, the only club he’s been interested in for a long time,” he said.
Wijnaldum put pen to paper on a three-year deal with PSG and will earn around £8.6million a year.
Speaking about the move, the player said: “Signing for Paris Saint-Germain is a new challenge for me.
“I’m joining one of the best squads in Europe and I want to bring all my desire and commitment to this ambitious project.
“PSG have proved how good they are in recent years and I am convinced that together, with our supporters, we can go even further and higher.”
Wijnaldum will be aiming for domestic and European success in France. Managed by Mauricio Pochettino, the club will want to regain their Ligue 1 crown.
They finished second in 2020/21, just one point behind title winners Lille.
The French giants also reached the Champions League semi-final. They were beaten by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City 4-1 on aggregate.
Wijnaldum becomes Pochettino’s first signing since taking over in January. The tactician will now have to find a suitable system for the 30-year-old alongside Marco Verratti in midfield.