Renato Sanches recalls magical Benfica years after sharing 2016 throwback | OneFootball

Renato Sanches has looked back on his Benfica years, revisiting the landmark 2016 season that defined his early career.

According to Glorioso 1904, the 28-year-old Portugal midfielder, on loan at Panathinaikos from PSG, posted an Instagram story about his first spell at Benfica. He also reshared a Wonderkids post highlighting that year.

In 2016 he broke through at Benfica and sealed a then-record sale for Portuguese football, joining Bayern Munich for €35 million, which could rise to €80 million depending on objectives.

That campaign brought the league title with Benfica. With Portugal he won Euro 2016, was named the tournament’s best young player, and received the Golden Boy award.

After Germany his career mixed highs with injury setbacks, taking in Swansea, Lille, PSG and Roma. He returned to Benfica in 2024/25, making 21 appearances and scoring one goal.

Now at Panathinaikos in Greece, he has one goal and one assist in 21 matches. A Seixal academy graduate, he remains widely cherished by Benfica supporters, and the 2016 transfer still stands as a milestone.

Source: Glorioso 1904