Benfica youth exit in the semi-final stage of UEFA Youth League

Benfica suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the UEFA Youth League semi-finals on today. Despite entering as heavy favourites with a strong campaign scoring 38 goals, the Portuguese giants fell short on this day. Club Brugge took the lead through a saved penalty kick in the first half where the saved rebound unfortunately went right back to the spot kicker who found the back of the net. 
 
 

Benfica missed a flurry of chances to bring the game level before the half which would prove costly as the game wore on. Two more goals by Brugge in the second half before a late own goal that went Benfica's way would be all the scoring in the game and Benfica bowed out of the competition in the final four stage.

This was Benfica's fifth appearance in the final four of the competition and the first time that they did not advance to the Finals. Benfica captured the UEFA Youth League crown in 2021-22 and are the only European Club to win the Under 20 Intercontinental Cup between Europe and South America youth champions in the summer of 2022.

Benfica show interest in Jagiellonia Bialystok midfielder

Benfica are showing strong interest in signing 19-year-old Polish attacking midfielder Bartosz Mazurek from Jagiellonia Białystok this summer, according to reports from journalist Piotr Kozminski. The youngster has burst onto the European scene with an impressive performance, scoring a hat trick in the UEFA Conference League against Fiorentina this season.

The right footed play maker joined Jagiellonia's main squad in early 2025 and has been a prominent player this season for the Polish side. His creativity, goal threat, and versatility in attacking roles have drawn scouts from across Europe.

Jagiellonia hold a strong negotiating position with Mazurek who has a contract until June 2028. A summer move could command a significantly hefty price tag on acquiring the Polish U19. Benfica are not alone in their interest with other clubs monitoring the youngster that include Fiorentina, Napoli, Premier League sides and even Portuguese rivals FC Porto. 

A move to Lisbon would represent a major step up for Mazurek, offering  potential Champions League football and development under Benfica’s renowned academy system. Mourinho is looking for a revamp of the squad next season, more in his mold after inheriting a squad made for former bench boss Bruno Lage and Mazurek could be a major scoop for the Lisbon side.

 

 

Benfica monitoring Tromso's young midfielder

Benfica eyes Norwegian talent Jens Hjertø-Dahl as the club actively monitors the 20-year-old Tromso central midfielder as a potential summer signing for the 2026-27 season. The Norway U21 international has caught the attention of several European clubs, including West Ham, Wolves, Hamburg and city rivals Sporting, following a strong campaign in the Norwegian Eliteserien.

Hjerto-Dahl brings a rare physical presence to the midfield. His blend of attributes makes him an intriguing prospect for Jose Mourinho’s side. Technically refined for his size, the youngster excels in ball control and short dribbles to escape pressure. He carries the ball with purpose, progresses play effectively, and delivers quality long passes to get the attack going in the right direction.

Defensively, his strength in aerial duels, well-timed tackles and physicality in one-on-one situations add steel to the engine room. Offensively, he contributes with a powerful mid-range shot and intelligent positioning, offering a threat on goal from a long distance. For Benfica, Hjertø-Dahl could provide depth and dynamism in central areas, complementing the squad’s technical players with his athleticism and composure. 

A cost-effective, high-upside addition, he fits the club’s strategy of investing in promising talents who are ready to develop in Lisbon’s demanding environment. With competition heating up, Benfica must act decisively if they wish to secure this rising Scandinavian star. 

Signed with Tromso into 2029, the 20 year old is said to have a price tag in the €13 million to €15 million range for potential suitors this summer. Look for Benfica to get ahead of the pack early as they look to enforce their squad for next season.