João Neves is no longer just a rising star—he’s a certified midfield sensation. At just 20 years old, the j888 Portuguese talent has rapidly established himself as one of the most complete and exciting young midfielders in world football. With incredible vision, composure, and creativity, Neves is showing the world what it means to be a modern playmaker. His 2024–25 season has been nothing short of outstanding, filled with key goals, assists, and performances that have helped define the direction of his club and country.
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The Journey from Benfica to PSG
Born in Tavira, Portugal, João Pedro Gonçalves Neves rose through the ranks of Benfica’s famed youth academy. He made his senior debut for Benfica in 2022 and quickly earned recognition for his maturity, ball control, and high football IQ. In 2024, after two brilliant seasons with the Lisbon giants, French champions Paris Saint-Germain came calling.
Neves signed with PSG in August 2024 on a five-year contract, in a deal valued at nearly €60 million. The move made headlines—not only because of the fee but because PSG had found their long-term midfield general. And Neves did not disappoint.
Ligue 1: Domination From Day One
João Neves made an immediate impact in Ligue 1. In his debut for PSG, he came off the bench to assist two goals in a 4–1 win. A week later, he added two more assists in a 6–0 victory, setting a new record for most assists in a player’s first two Ligue 1 appearances.
By the end of the 2024–25 season, Neves had played 29 matches in Ligue 1, scoring 3 goals and delivering 8 assists. His total of 11 goal contributions placed him among the top midfielders in the league, especially impressive considering his age and role in central midfield.
But beyond stats, his presence was felt everywhere—he dictated the tempo, linked defense to attack, and consistently broke down opposing lines with smart positioning and pinpoint passing.
Champions League Heroics
Neves also played a key role in PSG’s historic UEFA Champions League campaign. Across 11 appearances in Europe’s top competition, he scored 1 goal and added 1 assist. His standout performance came in the Round of 16 against Manchester City, where he scored a crucial goal and put in a dominant display that helped PSG complete a stunning 4–2 comeback.
He finished the tournament with over 90% pass accuracy, showing calmness under pressure and an ability to shine on the biggest stage. PSG went on to lift their first-ever Champions League title that season, and Neves’ name was carved into the club’s history books.
Playing Style and Strengths
João Neves is the perfect example of a modern midfielder. He combines elegance with endurance, creativity with control. Comfortable playing as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box midfielder, or even on the flanks, Neves brings versatility that every manager dreams of.
He reads the game brilliantly, intercepts passes, and always seems to make the right decision. His passing range is exceptional—able to switch play effortlessly or break the lines with defense-splitting through balls. Despite his age, Neves displays leadership and intelligence that are rare even among seasoned professionals.
Season Stats Snapshot
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ligue 1 | 29 | 3 | 8 |
| UEFA Champions League | 11 | 1 | 1 |
| Other Competitions | ~19 | 3 | – |
| Total | ~59 | 7 | 8 |
What’s Next for João Neves?
With a domestic league title, a domestic cup, and a UEFA Champions League trophy already in his cabinet, Neves has achieved more at 20 than many do in an entire career. But this is just the beginning. Whether he continues to lead PSG’s midfield or seeks a new challenge in the future, João Neves is destined for greatness.
He’s not just a wonderkid anymore—he’s a central figure in the next era of European football. And as Portugal looks ahead to future tournaments, João Neves will undoubtedly be at the heart of their hopes and dreams.