text: aside from the financial benefits, why do all of the best south american players play in europe? are not the south americans football "mad"? surely this continent can afford to pay these great players the ridiculous salaries afforded most other pro athletes these guys want the competition.  aside from the salaries, wouldn't you want to prove that youre the best by beating the best?  the largest concentration of superstar players is in europe.  therefore, you must compete in the same leagues in order to prove your worth