Ruben Neves was in tears as he confirmed his exit from Wolves to join Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia for a club record fee of £47m.
The Portuguese star, known for his fine touches and great passing skills in the midfield, joined Wolves in 2017 from his boyhood club FC Porto.
The prolific defensive midfielder was signed for a fee believed to be around £15.7m from Porto and he got down to his craft with Wolves quickly, establishing himself as one of the top players in the squad.
Ruben Neves joined Wolves when the club were playing in English second tier. He scored his first goal on August 15 in a 3-2 victory over Hull City.
Under the tutelage of former Wolves manager, Nuno Espirito, Ruben Neves emerged as a top midfielder with an immediate impact on the Wanderers.
Ruben Neves Wolves’ heroics
Ruben Neves made Championships Team of the Season in 2018 and was nominated for Championships Player of the Season. He also made the list of top players nominated for the Young Player Award.
In the said year, his legendary midfield antics and impact saw Wolves emerged Championship winners and gained promotion to the Premier League.
Neves was instrumental to Wolves’ triumphant campaign and promotion to the Premier League. He made 46 appearances for the club, scoring six goals, all outside the box.
His stunning goals won him Wolves Goal of the Season Award, Player of the Season, and Players’ Player of the season award.
Five years in the Premier League, Neves has been an icon. He was made the team captain, helping the club to a 7th place finish in the Premier League twice, FA Cup semi-final in 2019 and Europa League quarterfinal in 2020.
After his standout performance for the club, Ruben Neves penned a five-year contract with Wolves on July 2018.
Throughout his six years stint with Wolves, Ruben Neves have not made less than 33 appearances for the club in a single season. In 2022/23 season, Neves has made 35 Premier League appearances for the club, with 6 goals.
Wolves confirm Ruben Neves’ exit in an emotional video
In a video shared on the club’s social media handle, Wolves confirmed Ruben Neves will leave the club this summer with the Portuguese star thanking the club, the players, the staff, kitmen, and the fans for ‘the moment that will last forever.”
‘Wolves, six seasons, 253 games, champions of the Championship, five years of Premier League football, an FA Cup semi-final, our European adventure and some huge wins,’ he said.
‘And thousands of memories which will last forever, what an unbelievable journey. I’ve worked with so many great people along the way.
‘Every single moment was unforgettable.’
Neves broke down in tears as he announced his exit.
Before Al Hilal came calling, Neves was linked to Liverpool and Barcelona this summer.
He was reportedly eager to try a new challenge after the expiration of his contract with Wolves this summer.
Ruben Neves Al Hilal contract
Ruben Neves has reportedly pen down a three-year deal with Al Hilal. His estimated weekly wage at the club is £300,000
Neves will be joining the list of top Premier League players that are moving to Saudi Arabia this season.
See His Best Moments
