In a touching display of camaraderie that transcends leagues and continents, former Wolverhampton Wanderers teammates Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota have permanently inked their friendship. The pair, who formed a formidable partnership at Molineux, recently got matching tattoos to commemorate their deep bond forged in the Black Country.
The emotional reunion occurred just weeks after Neves's shocking £47 million transfer to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, a move that sent ripples through the football world. The Portuguese midfielder, now plying his trade in the Middle East, made a special trip to meet his old friend and current Liverpool star Jota for the meaningful body art.
A Permanent Molineux Memory
While the specific design remains a private matter for the players, the act itself speaks volumes about their connection. Their time together at Wolves saw the club establish itself as a force in the Premier League, with both players becoming fan favourites for their skill, passion, and commitment.
Neves's departure this summer marked the end of an era, but this tattoo proves some ties are never broken. The midfielder's move to Al-Hilal was one of the first major transfers following the Saudi league's massive investment in European talent.
Neves Opens Up on Saudi Surprise
In a candid revelation, Neves admitted his transfer to Saudi Arabia came as a surprise even to him. The 26-year-old confessed that the lucrative move wasn't part of his original career plan, but the project presented by Al-Hilal proved too compelling to refuse.
'It was something that I didn't expect,' Neves revealed. 'It came almost out of nowhere, but the ambition and the project they presented was incredible. It's a new challenge, a new culture, and I'm excited to help build something special here.'
The Premier League Pull
Despite his current commitment to Al-Hilal, Neves hasn't closed the door on a return to England's top flight. The midfielder expressed his enduring love for the Premier League, acknowledging its status as one of the world's most competitive competitions.
'The Premier League is a special league, without a doubt,' he stated. 'You never know what the future holds in football. For now, my focus is entirely on Al-Hilal and helping us achieve our goals, but I will always look back on my time in England with great affection.'
This heartfelt tattoo story offers a rare glimpse into the personal relationships that develop behind the scenes in professional football, proving that some bonds, like their new ink, are truly permanent.
