Career Timeline of João Neves: Major Achievements and Milestones

How João Neves built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

João Neves is a Portuguese professional footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain and the Portugal national team. A promising talent in European football, he is known for his skills and contributions on the field. His career highlights include representing his country at the international level and playing for a high-profile club like Paris Saint-Germain.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

December 2020: Signs First Professional Contract with Benfica

In December 2020, Neves signed his first professional contract with Benfica.

2021: UEFA Youth League Group Stage

In 2021-22, Neves was part of the Benfica U19 team that topped their UEFA Youth League group against Dynamo Kyiv, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, eventually winning the tournament.

August 2022: Professional Debut with Benfica B

On August 6, 2022, Neves made his professional debut with Benfica B in a 1–1 LigaPro draw against Académico de Viseu. On August 24, 2022, Neves started in Benfica's 1–0 victory against Peñarol at the 2022 Under-20 Intercontinental Cup.

December 2022: Unofficial Debut and Contract Extension

In December 2022, during the league break for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Neves made his unofficial debut for Benfica's first team in a friendly against Sevilla. He signed a contract extension with Benfica until 2028 on December 21, 2022.

June 2023: UEFA European Under-21 Championship

In June 2023, Neves participated in the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, scoring his first goal on June 27 in a 2–1 victory against Belgium. However, Portugal was eliminated on July 2 after a loss to England.

October 2023: First Call-Up to Portuguese Team

On October 6, 2023, Neves was called up to the Portuguese team for UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying matches. He debuted on October 16, 2023, replacing Otávio in a 5–0 victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

2023: Senior International Debut

In 2023, Neves made his senior international debut for Portugal after representing his country at various youth levels.

2023: Man of the Match and Equalizer Goal

On August 9, 2023, Neves was named man of the match in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira victory over Porto. On November 12, 2023, he scored a 94th-minute equalizer against Sporting CP and received the Man of the Match award.

2023: Senior Team Debut and Champions League Debut

On January 1, 2023, Neves debuted for Benfica's senior team. On March 7, 2023, he made his UEFA Champions League debut, providing an assist in a win against Club Brugge.

May 2024: Selection for UEFA Euro 2024 Squad

In May 2024, Neves was selected in the 26-man squad for the UEFA Euro 2024. He debuted in the competition as a starter in a 2–0 loss against Georgia, and Portugal was eliminated in the quarter-finals.

July 2024: Paris Saint-Germain Bid

In July 2024, Paris Saint-Germain made an initial bid for Neves of €70 million, which was initially rejected, leading to negotiations and Benfica's confirmation of a received bid.

August 2024: Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain

In August 2024, João Neves joined Paris Saint-Germain for a transfer fee of €60 million after rising through Benfica's youth system.

2024: UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifying Matches

In October 2023, Neves was called up to the Portuguese team for UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying matches.

January 2025: Player of the Match vs Manchester City

On January 22, 2025, Neves was elected player of the match after a 4–2 Champions League victory over Manchester City, where he scored the decisive goal.