Ruben Neves Highlights Saudi Football’s Strength

Wolves might discover the next Ruben Neves in their "talented" academy midfielder.

Ruben Neves, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder has defended the quality of Saudi Arabia’s domestic football following Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent performances. Neves, who helped Al-Hilal win the Saudi Pro League title last season saw Ronaldo score a decisive late goal against Scotland adding to his record-breaking 900th career goal against Croatia. This performance, Neves believes challenges critics of Saudi football’s quality.

Neves, now playing for Al-Hilal, highlighted the intensity of the Saudi Pro League by comparing his physical exertion there to his experience in English football. He noted that, despite the extreme heat in Saudi Arabia, the level of competition remains high. Neves stated, “If you compare my GPS data from English football to Saudi football, I run even more, but with the difference that I run in 40 degrees [Celsius].”

Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr, followed his impressive goal against Croatia by coming off the bench to score the winner against Scotland in Portugal’s Nations League campaign. Ruben Neves expressed confidence that Ronaldo’s goal tally could reach 1,000, saying, “With Cristiano, anything is possible.” Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez explained that Ronaldo’s substitution against Scotland was a strategic decision.

He noted that, given Ronaldo’s age, it’s important to manage his game time effectively. Martinez praised Ronaldo’s commitment and performance, stating, “Cristiano is in a very good moment,” and highlighting the necessity of protecting all players. In the match against Scotland, despite an early goal from Scott McTominay, Portugal secured a 2-1 victory with Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes scoring the equalizer.

Fernandes, who celebrated his 30th birthday that day, acknowledged the challenge of the game but also praised Ronaldo’s consistent influence, regardless of his starting status. Nuno Mendes, who assisted Ronaldo’s goal, echoed the sentiment that it was a collective team effort to achieve the win.