Neves will continue in Saudi Arabia (Getty Images)
Portuguese midfielder Rúben Neves has ended speculation over his future by signing a new three-and-a-half-year contract with Saudi Arabian powerhouses Al Hilal.
Neves has been with Al Hilal since the summer of 2023, becoming one of the star players of the Saudi Pro League, but in recent months he has been widely linked with a move back to Europe. However, the former Porto man has now extended his deal in Riyadh until 2029, by which time he will be 32 years old.
The esteem in which Neves is held by his club was clear in the announcement video for his contract extension. From 24 appearances in the league this term, Neves had produced an impressive nine goals and provided six assists, helping Al Hilal to 1st place in the Pro League – one point ahead of Al Nassr of Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix and Jorge Jesus.
“In the world of art, Mozart composed the greatest symphonies, crafting melodies that gave time its artistic glow,” the Saudi club began in their video confirming the news.
“And in his footsteps, another genius creates symphonies on the field. His passes a perfectly tuned classical melody. His dribbles a masterpiece of creativity. His goals a dramatic symphony that thrills the senses. The match turns into a living orchestra. The genius of Neves shines through every detail.
“The Mozart of football continues to compose his symphony with Al Hilal.”
Neves left Wolverhampton Wanderers after six years with the club receiving similar praise. “No other player has made such an impact on the pitch in gold and black during the last six years having featured more than 250 times in a remarkable period in the club’s history,” Wolves posted after news of his departure was broken in 2023.
Neves has made 63 appearances for Portugal and scored his first goal for the Seleção in the 1-0 win over Republic of Ireland last October.
