Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes hypes up Benfica star Joao Neves amid strong interest from the English club
Bruno Fernandes assured Benfica star Joao Neves is ready to play for a big club amid interest from Manchester United. Neves has been sensational for the Portuguese club, allowing him to be a part of the national team.
Standing at 1.74 metres, the 19-year-old has a small stature but possesses deceptive strength and athleticism to hold his own. He is an all-round midfielder with maturity and mental strength beyond his age that has helped him establish quickly.
Neves reads the game well and anticipates opposition moves to make well-timed tackles and interceptions as a number six. He has the aggression and desire to work hard for his team but uses patience in decision-making.
He has demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, but there is still a long way to go before fully nurturing them. His short stature allows him to keep a low centre of gravity to have close control and dribbling ability.
The Portugal international is always ready to take possession in tight spaces and wiggle his way out of the area. His passing accuracy and constant support for his teammates is a big advantage for the team on possession.
Neves has made 45 appearances for Benfica in all competitions, contributing with two goals and two assists this season. He has primarily played as a defensive midfielder and a central midfielder while also playing at right midfield when required.
Speaking to Sports TV Portugal (h/t Fabrizio Romano’s X account), Fernandes hyped Neves for his ability and readiness. He said:
“I don’t know if United rumours are true, but I know he is ready for that big jump. He is an excellent player, he’s with the National team, that’s also why the big clubs are after him”
Manchester Evening News reported that Neves linked himself with a switch to Old Trafford during the summer. The 19-year-old could be a fantastic midfield signing under the new regime of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, ushering in a promising start.
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United have struggled in the midfield department as their top summer signing Mason Mount failed to make an impact. On-loan signing Sofyan Amrabat is also a failed move for the Red Devils while Casemiro struggled with form and injuries. Neves fits the profile that the Red Devils would desire in a midfielder while his age and experience are a fantastic combination.
