A number of top European clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United, are looking for a versatile midfielder, and Benfica’s João Neves fits the bill for many.
Coming through Benfica’s youth system, Neves is one of the most exciting young players around the globe at the moment.
The below visualisation shows where João Neves ranks for some key metrics when compared with players in a similar position to him in leagues in and around the same level as the Portuguese top-flight.
Midfielders are expected to bring their A-game in different aspects.
A defensive midfielder is expected to go beyond just interceptions, tackling, and recovering possession.
They are expected to control the game, progress the ball, play an important part in the attacking build-up, and sometimes even chip in with a goal.
Neves is one such player who can be termed an all-rounder.
With excellent numbers on the defensive side of the game, ranking 58th percentile for defensive positioning and 72nd percentile for defensive duels per 90 minutes.
In possession, Neves often presents himself to receive the ball from his teammates and progress it forward — reaching the 66th percentile for Progressive passes per 90 minutes.
However, that is an aspect of his game that he can still improve upon.
He is also unafraid to carry the ball forward, ranking 92nd percentile for Dribbles per 90 minutes.
Even if his expected goals contributions numbers put him average to above average, Neves has not been the player who quite often finds the back of the next or quite often creates chances for his teammates so far.
João Neves’s season has seen him establish himself as a regular for Benfica and earn his first call-up to the national team.
This season has also served as a platform for Neves to showcase his abilities to numerous European clubs.
With strong rumours swirling about his future, the Euros could be the turning point that propels him to one of Europe’s elite clubs, sparking hope for his potential.
