Who Is João Neves?
International tournament football tends to propel players profiles, and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was no different.
As Argentina went on to claim their third title, one player who caught the attention of five-time Premier League champions Chelsea was midfielder Enzo Fernández.
Fernández subsequently secured a move to the Blues for a British-record transfer fee in January 2023.
His departure led to much media speculation about who would replace him at SL Benfica.
Still, the Águias looked no further than their academy, eventually promoting 19-year-old João Neves into the role.
Neves enjoyed a seamless transition into the Benfica first-team, and the youngster played a pivotal role in ensuring the Primeira Liga returned to the Estádio da Luz for the first time in four years.
The 19-year-old midfielder, who reportedly has a €120 million transfer clause, has started most matches this season as Benfica currently leads the league.
In this tactical analysis and scout report, we will provide an analysis of how Neves has fit into Roger Schmidts tactics at Benfica following Fernándezs departure.
We will also use xGold to compare Neves to players from the Premier League, highlighting why the teenager may one day be bound for Englands top tier.
SL Benfica Post-Enzo Fernández
Roger Schmidt typically sets up his side in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Benfica are a possession-based side, averaging 62.9% possession, the highest in the division.
The Lisbon-based side often looks to pass out from the defence at a high tempo.
The Benfica full-backs look to use the width of the pitch, and the onus is on the double-pivoted midfielders to ensure a smooth transition from the defensive to attacking phases of play.
The double pivot in defensive midfield is, therefore, required to be comfortable on the ball, possess an expansive passing range, and be competent at regaining possession.
This was a role in which Enzo Fernández excelled prior to his departure to Stamford Bridge.
However, his replace
