Sporting's academy in global spotlight, but Benfica step up rivalry | OneFootball

A study released by the Football Observatory (CIES) placed Benfica and Sporting among the most profitable academies of the last decade. The data analyzes revenue generated from the sale of homegrown players since the 2015/16 season, putting Portuguese clubs in a prominent position on the international stage. Benfica sits in first place, but Sporting is not far behind.

The Lions are fifth in the world ranking, having accumulated €417 million in sales of academy-trained players over the last ten years. Half of that amount was achieved in the five most recent years, highlighting the continued commitment to youth development. The Alvalade club appears behind teams such as Chelsea and Lyon, and ahead of Porto and Braga.

A large part of this prominent position is due to transfers with major financial impact. The biggest sale linked to Sporting’s academy is that of Geovany Quenda to Chelsea for €50.78 million, already accounted for in the 2026/27 season. Right behind it comes the transfer of Matheus Nunes to Wolverhampton (€47.4 million in 22/23). Sporting’s top three biggest sales are completed by the departure of Nuno Mendes to Paris Saint-Germain for €45 million, a deal that boosted the international visibility of the green-and-white academy.

The study also highlights Sporting’s consistency in developing young talent. The club’s strategy is based on the gradual integration of academy players into the first team, increasing their market value. This model has allowed for high revenues and international recognition, consolidating the status of Sporting’s academy. The impact of these sales is directly reflected in the club’s financial sustainability.

It should also be remembered that Sporting had already appeared in another CIES study, the one on the most valuable players, taking into account all athletes under contract, including those out on loan. The Lions rank 31st among the 35 clubs analyzed by the organization, with an estimated total market value of €474 million.

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