In a strategic move that underscores its future ambitions and desire to maintain the stability of its sporting project, Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal club officially announced the renewal of the contract of its Portuguese star, Ruben Neves, the first team's midfielder, for an additional three years, extending his contract until the summer of 2029. This announcement puts an end to speculation about the player's future and confirms his pivotal role in the club's plans for the coming seasons.
Background of the deal and immediate impact
Ruben Neves' arrival at Al-Hilal in the summer of 2023 from English club Wolverhampton Wanderers was a blockbuster signing that highlighted the growing financial power and appeal of the Saudi Professional League. Neves was no ordinary player; he was the captain of his Premier League team and one of Europe's most prominent midfielders, making his move to Riyadh a landmark event. From the very first moment, the Portuguese star demonstrated his immense talent, quickly integrating into coach Jorge Jesus's system and forming a formidable midfield partnership with Serbian Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, becoming an indispensable pillar of the team.
The importance of renewal and its future impact
Ruben Neves (27 years old) is considered one of the key contributors to Al-Hilal's historic season, in which the team won the treble of the Saudi Professional League (undefeated), the King's Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup. Neves distinguished himself with his ability to control the tempo of the game, his accurate passing, and his powerful shots, which provided a crucial attacking option. Therefore, the decision to renew his contract is not merely a reward for his outstanding performance, but a clear message from the club's management that they are building a team for the future, capable of maintaining their domestic dominance and competing strongly on the continental stage, especially in the AFC Champions League and the new edition of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Impact on the Saudi League
More broadly, this renewal reflects a significant shift in how international players perceive the Saudi League. Once viewed as a short-term destination, it is now seen as a long-term sporting project that attracts stars to settle down and dedicate the best years of their careers to it. The continued presence of a player at the peak of his powers like Ruben Neves until 2029 enhances the league's credibility and solidifies its position as one of the world's leading leagues for attracting talent, paving the way for similar deals and renewals in the future.
