João Neves Reflects on Rapid Rise from Benfica to PSG Stardom

PARIS, France — João Neves, the 20-year-old Portuguese midfielder, has opened up about his meteoric rise from Benfica‘s youth ranks to becoming a key player for French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In an exclusive interview with French outlet Onze Mondial, Neves reflected on his journey, the challenges of adapting to top-tier football, and his admiration for PSG’s philosophy.

Neves first gained attention during the 2022-23 season at Benfica, particularly after the departure of Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea. “This transition happened with the 2022 World Cup, it was at the end of the year, in November-December, and it was in the middle of the season,” Neves recalled. “At that time, the coach [Roger Schmidt] needed some players to train, and I was called up from the B team. I was very nervous, but the senior players helped me a lot.”

His debut as a starter came against Estoril, a moment he vividly remembers. “I was super nervous, but I always am before a game. It’s that worry of, ‘Okay, I’m going to have to do something different, I’m going to have to help the team,'” he said.

Last summer, Neves made a surprising move to PSG, a decision he attributes to the club’s vision and his desire for growth. “I didn’t expect to leave Benfica, but PSG’s proposal and their ideology were perfect for me. They want to bet on young players and beautiful football,” he explained. Despite the €60 million transfer fee, Neves remains unfazed by the financial aspect. “I’m so young that I have no idea what money is and how important it is. I think it’s an advantage,” he added.

At PSG, Neves has found a mentor in coach Luis Enrique, whose team-based approach has resonated with the young midfielder. “I really like his working method. He’s sincere, he helps us improve, and he cares a lot about his players,” Neves said. His compatriot Vitinha has also praised Enrique, and Neves agrees, emphasizing the coach’s role in his development.

Neves also compared the football standards in France and Portugal, noting the higher level of competition in Ligue 1. “The mid-table and lower-table teams here are more homogeneous, competitive, and stronger. The stadiums are much better, and all teams are capable of playing good football,” he said.

With seven assists, Neves currently leads Ligue 1 in assists this season, showcasing his impact at PSG. Another young talent, Diego Moreira, also 20, is making waves at Strasbourg with four assists, highlighting the growing influence of Portuguese players in France.