Gabriel Índio impresses Benfica on first day, 17-year-old joins in before unveiling | OneFootball

Gabriel Índio made a striking first impression at Benfica, catching the eye with his physical power on day one of 26/27 at Seixal, despite not yet being officially unveiled.

Record reports that the 17-year-old centre-back excelled in medicals and fitness testing with Marco Silva’s squad. His power at such a young age had already been noted by Rui Duarte, who gave him his start at Athletic-MG.

The defender was signed for four million euros and was one of 30 players involved on the opening day. FIFA restricts international transfers of minors, and the rare exemptions do not cover his move.

Benfica sought special approval from FIFA for him to travel early to Portugal to speed up his adaptation to the club and country. He will be presented on 26 July, the day he turns 18.

While formalities remain, the teenager has been shown around and integrated by his new team-mates. Also present were João Fonseca, Daniel Banjaqui, José Neto, Rui Silva, Miguel Figueiredo, Gonçalo Moreira, João Rego, Jaden Umeh, Anísio Cabral and Peter Edokpolor.

Source: Glorioso 1904