Rui Costa approves Joana Silva loan move to Valadares Gaia

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·13 January 2026

Rui Costa approves Joana Silva loan move to Valadares Gaia

Benfica confirmed that defender Joana Silva has joined Valadares Gaia on loan until the end of the season, a move approved by Rui Costa to secure regular minutes.

The 20-year-old centre-back has featured twice in the first half of the campaign, scoring once, and will seek game time in the Liga BPI. It is her first spell away from Benfica since joining the academy in 2020/21.

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The loan is intended to aid her development and increase competitive rhythm, with the aim that she returns more mature and a useful option in the near future.

In central defence, the coaching staff currently rely on Christy Ucheibe, Diana Gomes and Carole Costa, limiting opportunities for the youngster.

Silva has made 23 appearances and scored four goals for Benfica, winning four trophies, three league titles and one League Cup. She is a Portugal youth international.

Source: Glorioso 1904