Benfica’s youth academy, based at the Seixal training ground, has long been a powerhouse in European football, producing world-class talents such as Bernardo Silva, Joao Felix, Renato Sanches, Joao Cancelo and Ruben Dias. In October 2025, the CIES Football Observatory ranked Benfica’s academy as the best in the world, with 93 players currently active in professional leagues in 31 different leagues.This recognition underlines the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent through meticulous scouting, state-of-the-art facilities and a philosophy that emphasizes technical skill, tactical intelligence and mental resilience.
Looking to the future, several promising players are emerging from the club’s ranks and are ready to make their mark with the first team and beyond. Here we put three talents in the spotlight: Joao Veloso, Rodrigo Rego and Diogo Prioste.
Joao Veloso: the pace setter in midfield
Born on June 26, 2005 in Albufeira, Joao Veloso embodies the profile of the modern midfielder. Veloso started his journey at local clubs Loule (2012–2014) and Albufeira (2014–2017) before joining Benfica’s prestigious academy in 2017.
His progression has been steady, signing his first professional contract in June 2022 and winning praise for his tactical intelligence and physical presence. Veloso is a complete midfielder, who excels at maintaining team tempo, initiating attacks and finishing chances. He played 34 games for Benfica B, scoring once and making six appearances for the senior team.
In September 2022, British newspaper The Guardian named him one of the best global talents born in 2005, a testament to his potential. On the international stage he has represented Portugal at youth level, with 40 caps and 8 goals from U16 to U20. Veloso is tipped to break into Benfica’s first team regularly, potentially filling the void left by departing stars.
Rodrigo Rego: the dynamic winger with flair
Born on January 3, 2005 in Aveiro, Rego brings speed and creativity to Benfica’s flanks. His youth journey took him from Porto (2012-2021) to Famalicao (2021-2022) before Benfica snapped him up in June 2022. Preferring his left foot, the winger extended his contract with Benfica in May 2023 for promotion to the U23s and again in December 2024 for Benfica B.
Rego impressed with 11 appearances and two goals for Benfica B, showcasing his dribbling and crossing skills. His senior debut came on 21 November 2025, in a 2–0 Taca de Portugal win over Atletico CP, where he earned Man of the Match honors for his energetic performance.
Internationally, he has two caps for the Portuguese U17. Rego’s versatility as a right winger makes him an excellent candidate for first-team minutes, especially in wide attacking roles. The 20-year-old already has a fan in current club manager Jose Mourinho.
Diogo Prioste: the versatile engine room operator
Born on March 26, 2004 in Lisbon, Prioste is a central midfielder known for his work rate and vision. He joined Damaia Ginásio in 2010 before immediately moving to Benfica’s youth academy that same year.
Prioste signed his professional contract in September 2020 and has become a mainstay for Benfica B, making 62 appearances and scoring 9 goals since 2022. He made his first-team debut in 2025. Prioste’s achievements include winning the 2021–2022 Campeonato Nacional de Juniores with Benfica’s juniors.
Internationally, he has made 35 appearances with Portugal’s U15 to U20 teams, scoring three goals and finishing runner-up at the 2023 UEFA Euro Under-19 Championship. His ability to control games from midfield positions him as a future key player, potentially emulating the success of predecessors such as Enzo Fernandez.
In conclusion, Benfica’s academy continues to thrive, with these young stars exemplifying the club’s talent pipeline. Players like Veloso, Rego and Prioste will carry on the torch and ensure Benfica remains a force in Portuguese and European football. Keep an eye on them as the future looks bright at the Estadio da Luz.
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