Liverpool left it late against Paris Saint-Germain but managed to come away a huge 1-0 victory in the Champions League.
The Reds had to hang on for the majority of the ninety minutes, with Alisson Becker’s ‘magnificent’ display keeping Arne Slot’s side in the game – before Harvey Elliot stole the show with an 87th minute winner.
Luis Enrique’s men will be left feeling hard done by the result, having dominated at the Parc des Princes.
The PSG midfield was a key reason behind the French side’s dominance, with one player in particular shining on the night – namely Joao Neves.
Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images
Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images
Joao Neves proves Liverpool transfer mistake in Champions League
Neves, who recently praised Mohamed Salah, was key for PSG on the night, with he and Vitinha causing the Liverpool midfield all sorts of problems.
The likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister struggled all evening and Neves was a big reason behind that.
Joao Neves stats vs Liverpool
Match rating 7.2
Minutes played 90
Pass accuracy 63/72 (88%)
Passes into the final third 6
Defensive actions 4
Duels won 6
Stats from FotMob
The Portuguese star’s unrelenting pressing and positivity on the ball was the sort of traits we normally see from Liverpool midfielders – something that is particularly interesting considering the Reds failed to sign the PSG man last summer.
Neves was reportedly a ‘priority’ for Slot while the midfielder was still at Benfica, Liverpool, however, failed to get the deal over the line, paving the way for PSG to swoop in and secure a £60m deal (via BBC Sport).
Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images
Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images
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Liverpool may reignite Neves interest after impressive display
The emergence of Gravenberch has eased Liverpool’s need to sign a midfielder – but Slot undoubtedly still needs fresh bodies in the middle of the park.
Gravenberch has started to look jaded in recent weeks and the Dutchman needs help, suggesting Liverpool will have to bring in midfield reinforcements this summer.
Neves could be the ideal pickup for the Reds, but he won’t come cheap having just arrived in Paris last August.
With that being said, FSG could be tempted to go for a less-costly option, which may see Liverpool reignite their Martin Zubimendi interest.
The Spaniard’s £51m release clause may tempt the Reds into action, but they will have to be quick as Zubimendi has also been linked with Arsenal.