Following the offensive chants against Al-Taawoun: Sami Al-Jaber says what happened to Neves does not reflect the true picture

In defence of Saudi values

Al-Hilal legend Sami Al-Jaber refused to stay silent over the abuse aimed at the club's star. Hours after Portugal's Ruben Neves was targeted by insulting chants during the match against Al-Taawoun, the Saudi football icon spoke out with a strong message of support, turning the focus back to the values that represent Saudi sport.

Posting on his official Instagram account, Al-Jaber spoke directly to the Al-Hilal midfielder. He stressed how much it means to have a player of his calibre in Saudi football, insisting that what happened was the act of individuals and does not reflect the true picture.

Saudis take pride in respect and hospitality as principles rooted in their religion and culture, Al-Jaber said, not mere slogans but a way of life shown in the welcome extended to everyone who chooses the Kingdom as their home. Those values, he added, go far beyond the boundaries of sporting competition and the momentary fanaticism inside the stands.

The former Al-Hilal star insisted the abuse aimed at Neves does not represent Saudi values in any way. The Portuguese player, he said, holds a special and exceptional place among Saudi fans, who have appreciated his contribution and commitment since the very first day of his arrival.

Al-Jaber closed with words of reassurance. He hopes Neves grasps the scale of the welcome he received on arriving in the Kingdom, and how deeply the fans feel his genuine belonging to the Saudi sporting community. What happened, he said, remains a passing cloud that cannot erase a relationship of mutual respect built over two seasons of brilliance and loyalty.