Rúben Neves, one of the most beloved and respected players in Portuguese football history, has passed away at the age of 31. The news was confirmed by his family on Wednesday morning, with Rúben's wife sharing a heartfelt message to fans.
The midfielder, who played for several clubs including Manchester United, Porto and Sporting CP, had been battling cancer for some time. He was diagnosed with the illness in 2019 and underwent multiple operations before succumbing to it earlier this year.
Rúben's passing has left a void in the hearts of many fans around the world. His career was marked by success both domestically and internationally, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders ever to grace the sport.
In tribute to Rúben's legacy, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has paid homage to him, stating that "his contribution to our game cannot be overstated." The FPF also thanked the medical staff and loved ones who supported Rúben during his battle with cancer.
As the world mourns the loss of a true legend, we can only hope that Rúben's memory will continue to inspire future generations of footballers to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication. Rest in peace, Rúben Neves.