João Neves on Arsenal-PSG: “They’re more physical, and we’re better with the ball.” | OneFootball

João Neves (20) arrived in Paris Saint-Germain from SL Benfica during the summer transfer window with a reputation as one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from the club’s famed academy.

Neves has spent this season living up to that reputation as a key component in Luis Enrique’s fluid midfield three. He has scored five and assisted nine in 46 games across all competitions since moving to the French capital.

The midfielder has played a crucial part in PSG’s Champions League campaign having started all but one fixture (the opening game 1-0 win against Girona). However, tonight will represent the biggest challenge for the twenty-year-old when he lines up for the first leg of PSG’s semi-final clash with Arsenal.

In an interview with The Athletic, Neves states, “I think the most positive thing Arsenal have is the collective, like us.” He adds, “It will be a very good football game. I think they are maybe more physical, and we are perhaps better with the ball – in my opinion. But they have their strengths, we have our strengths.”

“What we want to do is to defend with the ball in their half of the pitch,” He explains. “Because having the ball is the best way to defend.” Neves will be hoping for a better result than when these teams last met in October, back then Arsenal won 2-0 at the Emirates.

GFFN | Nick Hartland