PSG superstar João Neves on what makes a midfielder: “Football IQ is the most important thing on the pitch” | OneFootball

Neves is regarded as one of the world's finest (Photo: Getty Images)

Portugal and Paris Saint-Germain sensation João Neves has been speaking to UEFA’s official media about his emergence as one of the continent’s best midfielders.

Neves, who won the Champions League last term in his first season in the French capital, is widely regarded, alongside compatriot and club teammate Vitinha, as one of the finest in his position despite his tender years.

Having only turned 21 in September, Neves has skyrocketed from making his debut with Benfica less than three years ago to placing 19th on the Ballon d’Or results earlier this year. Reflecting on his rise to stardom, Neves admits that he was not blessed with the physicality some have thought required to make his mark so early.

"Perhaps some people underestimate me because of my size and think that I'm not powerful,” he says. “But you must never forget that football IQ is most important on the pitch. When you're not the most physical, you have to be intelligent. I can't explain it, it's instinctive. It's something that has nothing to do with physique, it's all in the head.

"It has worked in my favour! In the sense that in a challenge, my opponents thought they could easily get the better of me. And they were then surprised to see my commitment, because I give 100% every time, in each challenge, in every aspect of the game, even at a set-piece.

“I'm not necessarily the first player that opponents are going to mark, because I'm the smallest. So I took advantage of that, working on my positioning and my timing. Then it was a question of repeating that, in training and during games, I wanted to perfect that. And then it became natural, something instinctive.

"I think that football today is increasingly tactical. And I think football intelligence: the science of positioning, of timing, the ability to play the ball with one or two touches depending on the situation, have become the most important aspects of the game. Of course, stamina, strength and speed help your performance, but I don't think they're the most important things. That's my vision of football. You have to be more clever, anticipate, always be one step ahead of your opponent."

Midfield always the best choice - Neves

Despite his perceived physical limitations, it was always in the middle of the pitch that Neves focused on developing himself when rising through the ranks at Benfica. Now, under the guidance of PSG’s Spanish coach Luis Enrique, the Seleção man is able to expand and develop his game – even adding more goals in recent weeks.

"I never really imagined myself as a forward or defender,” he admits. “When I was little, I actually played as a striker, but as the pitch got bigger, we find out what our real strengths and qualities are. Midfield was always the best choice for me because I want to be a complete player. I want to be able to do a bit of everything. And in that sense, I think I chose the best position for me!

“At PSG, we play in a system that allows all the players to be dangerous, to make goals and score. And the stats show that. You have to take advantage of every opportunity, take risks. I think I've improved in that regard. It's an aspect of my game that I wanted to improve, but I've never rushed it.

“This season, it's rather positive and I have to keep going in the same vein. My dad always told me that the most difficult thing to do is not to make it, but to stay there at the top level.”

Father’s role

Neves’ mention of his father is significant. Pedro Neves served as a policeman and his approach to discipline was a major influence on his son during formative years. Now, João leads a strict life off the pitch, as he did in his youth, which he feels has been crucial in preparing him for the requirements of professional football.

“Everything [as a kid] always had to be in order, and I took that into my adult life. I don't think I'd be where I am now if it wasn't for that strict upbringing. I wouldn't have the perseverance and resilience that I have.

“I remember us doing races during lockdown, during COVID, when we were training at home. The plan was to do 15 seconds walking and 15 seconds running, and my dad—without telling me anything — would make me run for 17 seconds and rest for 13 seconds. I didn't know a thing, and thought I was doing the usual 15-15. So, that story gives you an idea of what my childhood was like.

“Away from football? I go to the café, and all that — and try to go under the radar as much as possible. An ordinary person. I know two or three people will recognise me and ask for a photo, but I believe the others will let me be. I don't have, for instance, Vitinha's moustache... or something in the way I move outside that makes people stare and instantly recognise me. So, maybe putting on a hat that I normally wear and like to wear is enough.”