This recognition underscores the club's commitment to nurturing young prospects through meticulous scouting, state-of-the-art facilities and a philosophy emphasizing technical skill, tactical intelligence, and mental resilience.
As we look toward the future, several promising players are emerging from the clubs ranks and poised to make their mark with the first team and beyond the countries borders. Here, we spotlight three talents: Joao Veloso, Rodrigo Rego and Diogo Prioste.
Joao Veloso: The Tempo Setting Midfield Maestro
Born on June 26, 2005, in Albufeira, Joao Veloso embodies the modern midfielder's profile. Veloso began 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 earning praise for his tactical intelligence and physical presence. Veloso is a complete midfielder, excelling in maintaining team tempo, initiating attacks, and finishing opportunities. He has made 34 appearances for Benfica B, scoring once and has featured six times for the senior team.
In September 2022, British paper 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 across youth levels, amassing 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 January 3, 2005, in Aveiro, Rego brings speed and creativity to Benfica's flanks. His youth path 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 has impressed with 11 appearances and 2 goals for Benfica B, showcasing his dribbling and crossing abilities. His senior debut came on November 21, 2025, in a 2–0 Taca de Portugal win over Atletico CP, where he earned the man of the match honors for his energetic performance.
Internationally, he has two caps for Portugal's U17, Rego's versatility as a right winger makes him a prime 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 March 26, 2004, in Lisbon, Prioste is a central midfielder known for his work rate and vision. He started at Damaia Ginásio in 2010 before immediately transitioning to Benfica's youth ranks that same year.
Signing his professional deal in September 2020, Prioste has become a mainstay for Benfica B, with 62 appearances and 9 goals since 2022. He made his first team debut in 2025. Prioste's achievements include winning the 2021–22 Campeonato Nacional de Juniores with Benfica's juniors.
Internationally, he has 35 caps across Portugal's U15 to U20 teams, scoring 3 goals and was a runner-up at the 2023 UEFA Euro Under-19 Championship. His ability to control games from the midfield, positions him as a future key player, potentially emulating the success of predecessors like 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 are set to carry the torch, ensuring Benfica remains a force in Portuguese and European football. Keep an eye on them, as the future is bright at the Estadio da Luz.
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