It's official! Benfica secure Seixal gem after move: It was at Christmas | OneFootball

Benfica have officially announced the signing of a professional contract with Guilherme Leal, a young left-back aged just 16 who continues to stand out in the club’s academy. The defender is currently in his seventh season serving the Club of Light and now sees the progress he has shown since arriving in the Benfica world rewarded. The young defender recalled that landmark moment and said he had no doubts about the choice he made, which came during Christmas.

"This adventure began when I was 9 years old at the CFT in Viseu. I started out and never expected to come this far. Now, I want much more. It was during the Christmas holidays. I was very euphoric, but also thoughtful, because I had to leave my family and my friends. At that moment it was not very easy, but I made the right choice", he said in comments to BTV.

Guilherme Leal’s journey began in 2019/20, when he moved from GDR Canas de Senhorim to Benfica’s Training and Development Centre in Viseu. Later, in 2022/23, he took an even bigger step in his career by joining Benfica Campus, a move that meant leaving behind his family, friends and his entire comfort zone.

Guilherme Leal also admitted that signing his first professional contract represents "a vote of confidence from the Club" and a very important step in his career. The left-back also took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him over the years. "I thank my family, my friends, the staff and my teammates. My work also contributed", highlighted the young Benfica player.

After helping Benfica win the national Iniciados title - the category in which Kayle Almeida plays - in 2024/25, Guilherme Leal has already made 22 appearances this season for the Juvenis and even made his debut in the National Under-17 First Division, despite still belonging to the Under-16 age group. The dream, he assures, remains very clear. "The goals are to improve as a team, individually and, if possible, to become national champions. My dream is to reach the first team. I know I have to work very hard to get there", he revealed.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.