Sami Al-Jaber Calls for Respect of Saudi Values After Chants Targeting Robin Neves
Former Al-Hilal star and Saudi football ambassador Sami Al-Jaber expressed his support for Portuguese midfielder Robin Neves on X, emphasizing the importance of his presence in the Saudi league.
Jaber's reaction to the chants
The comments came after a video circulated showing Al-Taawoun fans chanting the name of deceased Portuguese player Diogo Jota to provoke Neves during a recent match. Al-Jaber said such behavior contradicts Saudi values rooted in respect and hospitality.
He noted that Saudis take pride in a heritage of generosity, and any conduct that opposes these principles does not reflect the true spirit of sport in the Kingdom.
Background of the incident
Diogo Jota, a close friend of Neves, died in a car accident in July 2025 at the age of 28. The two had played together at Wolverhampton Wanderers and for the Portugal national team.
The Saudi Football Federation and the Roshan League announced on Sunday their condemnation of any unacceptable conduct during the Al-Hilal vs Al-Taawoun match, calling for proper sporting behavior.
Related Articles
Al Hilal Files Complaint Over Chants Targeting Robin Nevizz
Al Hilal filed a complaint with the Saudi Football Federation against Al-Taawoun fans for chanting offensive slogans aimed at Portuguese star Robin Nevizz, citing a video that shows provocation using the name of his late friend Diogo Jota. The club stressed that such conduct breaches sporting values and aims to protect player dignity. No response has been given by the federation or Al-Taawoun yet.
Saudi FA condemns Al-Tai fans' provocation of Neves using late Jota's name
The Saudi Football Association issued a statement condemning Al-Tai fans for provoking Rúben Neves by chanting the name of his late friend Diogo Jota, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for actions contrary to sportsmanship and announcing disciplinary measures.
Alwaleed bin Talal: Al-Hilal is a trust from my brother Mohammed bin Salman after defeating Al-Ahli
Prince Alwaleed bin Talal affirmed that Al-Hilal club is a trust from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, following the team's clean 3-0 victory over Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. The remarks come after Kingdom Holding Company acquired 70% of the club's shares, with Al-Hilal currently topping the league table with 12 points, level with Al-Nassr.