João Neves: “Paris Saint-Germain suits my playing style”
Having just arrived in the French capital, Paris Saint-Germain’s new midfielder spoke to PSG TV about the fresh challenge that awaits him and the aims driving him forward.
Welcome to your new family, João! This has been some month for you between playing at the Euro with Portugal, leaving Benfica and coming here. How are you feeling today?
“Honestly, I’m a bit nervous but happy at the same time! I hope that PSG’s fans will like me.“
Despite only being 19 years old, you’re already hugely experienced, but at the same time, this is the first time that you’ve left your home country and the club that developed you. Do you feel ready to take up this challenge?
“Yes, this is a new chapter in my life. I’ll face up to it with my friends and family, and I hope that everything turns out for the best.“
What was it about the club’s project that won you over?
“It’s a fantastic project from a massive club. This is a young club with high aims, and I think that that way of thinking and of trying to make the club stronger with young players is a great project. This club has high aims and already boasts several records.“
Did you speak to any Paris players before you came here? We’ve got a pretty good idea of the answer…
“I obviously spoke to all of the Portuguese players but also to Ángel Di María, who told me a lot about the club. He said nothing but good things about it and that I would be happy here.“
You must have spoken to Luis Enrique, too. How did that go?
“Luis Enrique’s philosophy is the one that I was looking for, and that’s also why I chose Paris. I really enjoyed our conversation. He’s a fantastic person, and I’m really happy to be here. I think that he was waiting for me to join the club, so I won’t disappoint him.“
How would you describe yourself to anyone who doesn’t know you?
“Firstly, even though I’m a young player, I believe that I’m mature. I like football and short, quick passing with good ideas behind it. I think that’s the playing style that PSG is looking for, and that’s why I’m here.“
You’ve enjoyed a meteoric rise, but you also still have a lot to learn. What are your aims with the club?
“I want to use this new chapter in my career to become a better player and to develop as a footballer. This is a project that requires young players to be excellent out on the pitch, and in terms of young players with maturity, I think that I fit into that category.“
Do you have anything to say to the fans?
“I want to let you know that I really can’t wait to see you and that I’ll do my best for Paris Saint-Germain.“