Ruben Neves bids farewell to Wolves and joins Al-Hilal in record transfer
Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves has concluded his six-season tenure with Wolverhampton Wanderers Credit: Jorono
In a record-breaking move, Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves has concluded his six-season tenure with Wolverhampton Wanderers, as he departs for Saudi Pro League's Al-Hilal on a permanent deal for club record transfer fee of £47m.
Signed from Porto in 2017, Neves quickly became an indispensable part of the Wolves side that advanced from the Championship to the Europa League in a mere two seasons and has sustained their Premier League status since.
At the tender age of 20, Neves acclimated swiftly to English football, which earned him the title of player of the season.
Neves further etched his name into Wolves history as the team's first goal scorer upon their return to the Premier League, marking his debut against Everton with a goal.
Alongside compatriot Joao Moutinho, Neves steered the club to the FA Cup semi-final and a commendable seventh-place finish in the Premier League.
His magnificent volley against Espanyol in the Europa League, where Wolves made it to the last eight, was just one of many remarkable moments from the number eight.
After Conor Coady's exit on loan last summer, Neves stepped into the role of permanent captain, impressively leading Wolves under three different managers and ensuring their stay in the Premier League.
With 253 appearances and 30 goals to his name, Neves is now ready to tackle a new challenge in the Middle East.
Matt Hobbs, Wolves' sporting director, lauded Neves' contributions. "Ruben is the embodiment of everything you look for when trying to bring players into a football club; a leader, a humble man and an extremely talented footballer who took Wolves to a different level."
He added, "He was part of a great era for this club and will go down as one of our best ever players. We are grateful for everything he has done for Wolves and wish him and his family the very best for the future.”
