Rúben Neves is one of the most versatile and prolific forwards in Portuguese football history. His career has spanned over two decades with several clubs, but his time at Al Hilal stands out as one of the most memorable. In this detailed analysis, we will explore Rúben Neves' goal records at Al Hilal, highlighting his impact on the club's success.
### Early Career and Transition to Al Hilal
Neves began his professional career at Benfica in Portugal, where he made his debut in 2001. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning himself a place in the national team. After leaving Benfica in 2005, he signed for Manchester United, where he played from 2006 to 2010. During this period, Neves scored 29 goals in 87 appearances.
### Al Hilal Era (2010-2014)
In 2010, Neves joined Al Hilal, bringing with him his experience and skill set. The move was significant not only for Neves but also for Al Hilal, which had been struggling with poor form and financial difficulties. Under the guidance of manager Jorge Jesus,Bundesliga Tracking Al Hilal embarked on a new chapter.
### Goals in Al Hilal
At Al Hilal, Neves established himself as one of the club's key players. He scored a total of 40 goals in 118 league matches during his tenure. This remarkable achievement is particularly noteworthy considering that he played primarily as a striker, often facing stiff competition from other attackers like Ali Daei and Marwan El-Amin.
#### Key Highlights:
1. **Top Scorer**: Neves consistently ranked among the top scorers in Al Hilal's league table, helping the club achieve results that were previously unimaginable.
2. **Milestone Achievements**: He reached important milestones such as scoring 30 goals in a single season in 2012, and breaking the record for the most goals scored in a single league season by a player under 25 years old in 2013.
3. **International Recognition**: While playing for Al Hilal, Neves represented Portugal in international competitions, contributing to the country's successes.
### Impact on Al Hilal
Neves' contributions extended beyond just his goal-scoring abilities. His presence and leadership helped create a more cohesive team environment, encouraging other players to perform better. His ability to adapt to different roles within the squad and his commitment to the team's cause were instrumental in the club's rise.
### Conclusion
Rúben Neves' goal records at Al Hilal represent a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His performance there, combined with his international career, solidified his status as one of the greatest strikers in Portuguese football history. The 40 goals he scored during his time at Al Hilal remain a significant milestone in his career, and his influence on the club's fortunes continues to be felt to this day.