Portuguese football’s youth development has received significant international recognition with three players featuring on a prestigious global list of the 60 most promising talents born in 2008, compiled by The Guardian.
The inclusion of Bernardo Lima from FC Porto, Banjaqui from Benfica, and José Neto, also from Benfica, highlights the strength of the nation’s youth academies.
All three players were instrumental in Portugal’s victory at the U-17 European Championship last summer, underscoring their readiness for elite competition.
The Guardian’s report lauded Lima as defining his team’s quality, while Banjaqui was described as a “true locomotive.” Neto, meanwhile, was noted for his potential to be “precious” for Benfica.
The comprehensive list, which identifies future stars in global football, also includes Honduran player Luis Suazo, who plays for Portuguese club Sporting Braga.