A Manchester City Midfielder Advises Joao Neves Against Joining Manchester United.
A Portugal teammate has advised Benfica starlet Joao Neves to reject a move to Manchester United and instead opt for Manchester City. At only 19 years old, Neves has already established himself as a key player in Benfica’s lineup, with three goals and two assists in 55 appearances during the impressive 2023-24 season.
Having started 27 matches in the Primeira Liga, Neves also featured in every minute of Benfica’s Champions League campaign and contributed to the club’s Portuguese top-flight title win in 2022-23.
Due to his rapid ascent, Neves has earned a spot in Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad and has already earned six caps for his country, making his first start in Tuesday’s 4-2 friendly victory over Iceland.
Benfica managed to fend off interest in Neves last summer by securing him to a new long-term contract until the summer of 2028. However, reports suggest that his contract includes a release clause of £105m.
Consequently, Benfica would be unable to block his departure if a suitor meets the nine-figure sum, with the strongest interest reportedly coming from Manchester United.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez recently spoke highly of Neves’s potential move to the Red Devils, and Erik ten Hag has confirmed his search for a new midfielder for the 2024-25 season.
However, the promising talent born in 2004 has received advice to disregard Manchester United’s offer and instead opt for Manchester City from Bernardo Silva, who desires Neves as a teammate in sky blue.
“I advised him to choose Manchester City. It’s a tough decision. Given the success he enjoyed last season, numerous clubs are vying for his signature,” Silva informed reporters, as quoted by Goal.
“As a fellow Portuguese and a player, I value him. I would like to see him alongside me. However, my priority is his best interest. I don’t need to persuade him. Joao Neves already proves his worth with his dedication and energy on the field.”
“Many clubs will likely join the competition. Let him decide what’s best for him. If he maintains this level of energy, he has a bright future ahead.”
Should Neves choose Manchester City or Manchester United?
Setting aside the £105m release clause for now, Neves may find more appeal in joining Manchester United over Manchester City from a playing standpoint, even with Silva attempting to persuade him.
To begin with, Silva might not even be present to offer Neves reassurance at the Etihad; his desire to depart has been known for some time, and both Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are rumored to be interested in a summer transfer.
Additionally, Neves would likely play second fiddle to Rodri at Manchester City, whereas a move to Manchester United would position him as a prized asset in their midfield and offer greater opportunities in the Premier League at Old Trafford.
Fellow countrymen Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, expected to remain despite Bayern Munich’s interest, would also be eager to welcome him. However, the financial aspects involved suggest that a summer transfer remains unlikely.
