Top 10 best youngsters in Liga Portugal in 2024

Published at :March 26, 2024 at 11:08 PM

Modified at :March 26, 2024 at 11:08 PM

Liga Portugal is renowned for producing some of the greats in football

Football is renowned for its belief that talent trumps age, exemplified by the youth setups flourishing in top clubs. In recent years, numerous prodigious talents have effortlessly ascended to the pinnacle of the sport, leaving a lasting impact with their stellar performances. Emerging from prestigious football academies, these promising youngsters have smoothly transitioned to the senior level, showcasing their skills and potential on a global stage. Undoubtedly, these young players are poised to become formidable forces in the football landscape, signalling an exciting future for the sport.

The Liga Portugal has consistently been a breeding ground for young and exceptionally talented players, and the trend continues with a fresh crop of top-quality youngsters. Without further ado, here is a list of the top 10 wonder kids currently making waves in the Portuguese league.

10. Francisco Conceicao (21) – Porto

Francisco Conceição commenced his football journey at Sporting’s academy at the tender age of eight, dedicating six seasons to the club. His debut in the Portuguese top tier unfolded in a 2–2 draw against Boavista on 13 February 2021. Notably, he etched his name in FC Porto’s history by becoming the second youngest player to participate in a UEFA Champions League match. This milestone occurred during the 2020–21 season’s round of 16, with Conceição making a late appearance in a 2–1 victory against Juventus.

FC Porto confirmed Conceição’s return to the club on a season-long loan from Ajax. During this stint, he achieved another significant milestone by scoring his first UEFA Champions League goal for Porto. This notable feat transpired in a thrilling 5–3 home victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, concluding the group stage.

9. Gustavo Sa (19) – Famalicao

Elevated to Famalicão’s U19 squad at the age of 16, he inked a professional contract that extends until 2024. The initiation of his professional and senior career with Famalicão transpired as a late substitute in a 3–0 Primeira Liga defeat against Braga on 12 August 2022. He has represented Portugal in U-18, U-19 and U-20 levels and soon he can make his senior international debut.

8. Eduardo Quaresma (21) – Sporting

Quaresma marked his entry into professional football by playing the full game in a 2–2 away draw against Vitória de Guimarães in the Primeira Liga on 4 June 2020. His international journey with Portugal began at the under-15 level and progressed through the under-16, under-17, under-18, and under-19 categories, accumulating a total of 36 caps. Venturing into the under-21 scene, he debuted on 6 September 2021, contributing to a 1–0 victory over Belarus in the 2023 UEFA European Championship qualifiers.

7. Rodrigo Gomes (20) – Braga

Gomes marked his Primeira Liga debut on 3 October 2020, entering the pitch as a substitute in the final two minutes of a 4–0 victory against Tondela, replacing Fransérgio. Following a season in the Liga 3 reserves, he notched his inaugural top-flight goal on 21 August 2022. This milestone occurred during a 5–0 triumph over Marítimo at the Estádio Municipal de Braga, where he came on as a late substitute.

On 4 August 2023, Braga officially announced that Gomes would embark on a season-long loan to Primeira Liga side Estoril Praia.

6. Gianluca Prestianni (18) – Benfica

Prestianni, a nimble winger, employs his low centre of gravity and agility with finesse to outmanoeuvre opponents, embarking on dynamic runs that propel his team forward. At his youthful stage, he draws comparisons to the legendary Lionel Messi, a testament to his exceptional dribbling style, earning him praise typically reserved for accomplished players. With his considerable potential evident even in his early years, Prestianni possesses the capabilities to evolve into a top-tier winger.

5. Otavio (21) – Porto

In his youth career, Otávio showcased his talent while playing for Internacional and Flamengo. His initiation into professional football occurred on 27 September 2020, as he made his debut for Flamengo’s main team in a Série A match against Palmeiras, resulting in a 1–1 draw. Following his promising performances, Otávio embarked on a new chapter in his career on 31 January 2024, securing a move to the esteemed Portuguese club, Porto. The transfer saw him sign a four-and-a-half-year contract.

Otávio wasted no time in making his mark at Porto, debuting on 17 February 2024. In a league encounter against Estrela da Amadora, he not only started the match but also showcased his endurance by playing the full 90 minutes, contributing significantly to Porto’s 2–0 victory.

4. Joao Neves (19) – Benfica

Operating as a midfielder for both Benfica and the Portugal national team, he initiated his football journey within Benfica’s youth system. His noteworthy contributions played a pivotal role in securing victory for his team in the UEFA Youth League 2021–22, showcasing early promise. Swiftly advancing to the first team, he made his professional debut at the age of 18, leaving an immediate impact.

In his debut season with Benfica, he emerged as a key figure, playing a crucial role in the team’s triumphant league title campaign. The midfielder’s impressive performances did not go unnoticed, earning him a spot in the senior international team at the age of 19 in 2023, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

3. Antonio Silva (20) – Benfica

Commencing his football journey in Benfica’s youth academy, Silva emerged as a pivotal figure during the 2021-22 season, playing a key role in their triumph in the UEFA Youth League. This victory marked a historic moment for Benfica, securing their first European trophy in six decades. Silva’s impactful contributions continued as he played a crucial part in Benfica’s league title victory during his debut season, showcasing his potential as a budding talent.

Swiftly transitioning to the international stage, he earned a spot in the senior squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Making his debut at this prestigious tournament, Silva etched his name in history by setting a new record as the youngest player ever to represent Portugal at the World Cup, achieving this milestone at the age of 19 years, one month, and three days.

2. Marcos Leonardo (20)- Benfica

As a complete forward, Leonardo embodies a blend of pace, determination, and a lethal instinct in the attacking third. Despite standing at 5’7″, he relies not on height but on an impressive jumping reach, proving highly effective in aerial situations. His positional play typically centres around the central forward role, occasionally venturing as a second striker.

Leonardo’s standout quality lies in his exceptional finishing ability, a skill set that distinguishes him on the field. What sets Marcos apart is his adeptness at moving without the ball, showcasing clever off-the-ball movements. Furthermore, his intriguing technique on the ball and remarkable mid-range and long-range shooting skills contribute to making him a formidable striker.

1. Ousmane Diomande (20) – Sporting

Diomande embodies the characteristics of a modern centre-back, notably exemplified by his exceptional comfort on the ball. His key attributes lie in his physicality, vision, and speed. With a robust physical presence, Diomande excels in both ground and aerial duels, consistently emerging victorious in 50/50 challenges and displaying prowess in winning headers, be it defensively or offensively, owing to his height and strength.

His keen vision becomes a crucial asset when initiating play from the back, aligning seamlessly with Sporting CP‘s emphasis on this approach in their playing style. Additionally, Diomande’s impressive speed serves as a valuable tool his quick pace allows him to swiftly recover, alleviating the need for his centre-back partner to provide cover.

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