Benfica struggling to tie down the Under-17 Euros MVP | OneFootball

Benfica has been securing the future of several academy gems, but not every file has been closed, and there is one case in particular that remains unresolved, despite the club’s strong internal commitment to other players developed at the Seixal Academy.

At the center of the matter is Rafael Quintas, a midfielder who shone at the highest level in the youth ranks and was named the best player of the 2025 Under-17 European Championship, before also winning the World Cup in the same age group, and is seen as one of the most promising talents of this generation.

Benfica’s SAD intends to renew his contract until 2031, following the path already taken with other youngsters such as Anísio Cabral, Daniel Banjaqui and José Neto, and, contrary to what might be expected, the stumbling block is not the salary figures, but rather the sporting plan presented to the player.

Now 18, Quintas has yet to make his debut for the B team this season, a scenario that raises doubts about his immediate path. The midfielder wants to make the step up to a more competitive environment as early as next season, seeking regular playing time that will allow him to develop and gain visibility.

with clubs such as Marseille and Eintracht Frankfurt keeping a close eye on him, but with no formal offers yet on the table.

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