In the summer of 2024, Paris Saint-Germain makes a significant move by securing the services of João Neves for an amount close to 60 million euros. An investment already considered wise, as the young Portuguese midfielder has established himself as an essential element of the team. In less than a year, his market value reaches 117.8 million euros according to the CIES, surpassing that of all his Parisian teammates.
Luis Enrique starts him in his first matches. The 20-year-old player stands out for his vision of the game, his simplicity, and his ability to repeat efforts. He emerges as one of the great successes of the recruitment policy led by Luis Campos, the club’s sporting director.
A Rapid Integration into the Capital
Arriving from Benfica, João Neves does not speak a word of French upon his arrival. He has never played outside of Portugal. Yet, his adaptation is swift. His ability to understand complex game systems and blend into a cosmopolitan team impresses the technical staff. He quickly stands out in major encounters, notably against Manchester City or Inter Milan.
During the Champions League final, he excels. Positioned as a sentinel, he intercepts, relaunches, and directs. His reading of the game and situational intelligence earn him an 8/10 in Le Parisien. A benchmark match for someone who dreams of matching Marco Verratti in the hearts of supporters.
Solid Foundations at Benfica
Born in Tavira, a small town in the Algarve, João Neves joined the Benfica Lisbon training center at 13. The Lisbon club instills in him a strong mentality and tactical discipline. In 2022, he wins the UEFA Youth League with the "Eagles". A first alert for European scouts.
He signs his first professional contract in 2020. By the end of 2022, he makes his debut with the first team. His first goal comes in May 2023 against Sporting, during a tense derby. The public discovers a player who is both simple, technical, and already very mature.
A Meteoric Rise in the National Team
Autumn 2023 marks his first call-up with the Portugal senior team. He quickly establishes himself as a credible substitute for Rúben Neves or Vitinha.
His participation in Euro 2024 marks a key stage in his development. Lined up in the group stage and then in the quarter-final against Germany, he shows himself to be combative, strategic, and disciplined. The Portuguese press praises his calmness and positional awareness.
A Discreet Warrior
Trained in a modest environment, João Neves received an education based on effort. His former coach, Jorge Cruz, recalls that his father forbade him from complaining. "He played with a fever, with bruises, always with a smile," he says.
On the field, he embodies the raw energy that Luis Enrique seeks. He makes numerous efforts without ever seeking the spotlight. "This boy plays for the team. And to win," summarizes the Spanish coach.
A Standout Season in Paris
During the 2024-2025 season, João Neves plays 52 matches across all competitions. He scores 5 goals, provides 8 assists, and covers an average distance of 12 km per match. In Ligue 1, he ranks among the best ball recoverers and finishes as the top assist provider for PSG by the winter break.
His first goal in Parisian colors comes during the Classique against Olympique de Marseille. A powerful 25-meter strike that lifts the Parc des Princes. This goal symbolizes his emergence in a highly competitive squad.
Recognition from the Locker Room and Supporters
Discreet in life, João Neves impresses with his simplicity. During celebrations at the Parc, he performs an astonishing backflip, applauded by the supporters. This gesture amuses his teammates and reveals a playful character behind the discipline.
His partner, Madalena Aragão, a young Portuguese actress with a large social media following, posts a poignant message after the C1 final: "You made history. You became a true Parisian."
A Pillar of Paris’s Future
Committed until June 2029, João Neves symbolizes PSG’s new strategy: focusing on youth, development, and tactical intelligence. Less flamboyant than a dribbling winger, but essential to the team’s balance.
Luis Campos has been following him since he was 14. He sees him as the future conductor of the Parisian midfield. Like a Thiago Motta or a Xabi Alonso, he knows how to make others play.
A Validated Recruitment Strategy
The total investment by PSG reaches 66 million euros, including bonuses. An amount now considered trivial given the player’s sporting impact. The capital club, long criticized for flashy transfers, seems to be taking a new direction.
With João Neves, they bet on humility, discipline, and sustainability. A choice that could set a precedent. Because beyond titles, PSG seeks an identity. And this young Portuguese, an indefatigable strategist, becomes its spokesperson.