Benfica secures homegrown talent: Hugo Gomes signs first professional contract at 16 years old.

Benfica continues to invest heavily in youth development — and the latest sign of this is called Hugo Miguel Freire Gomes. The midfielder, who is in his seventh consecutive season with the club, has signed the first professional contract of his career, in a symbolic and strategic moment for the future of the club from Luz.

At 16 years old, just about to turn 17 on January 26, the young midfielder sees his path of growth and loyalty to the Benfica project officially rewarded.

### “My work is being valued”

In statements to BTV, Hugo Gomes did not hide his emotion at the step he has now taken, emphasizing the significance of the effort accumulated over the years.

#### Debrief – Hugo Gomes

“Signing this first professional contract means that I have worked hard to get here, and that my work is being valued. I thank my family, my friends, my teammates, and coaches who have helped me along the way. And we will go for more.”

The speech reveals maturity, gratitude, and ambition — traits that Benfica’s structure values early on in its young talents.

The Dream of the A Team is Clearly Defined

Despite signing a professional contract, the midfielder keeps his feet firmly on the ground, aware that the path to the elite requires time, consistency, and continuous evolution.

Debrief – Hugo Gomes

“I have given everything to achieve my goal, which is to reach the A team, but knowing that I still have many steps to take. Wearing the Benfica jersey is a pride for me.”

Following these statements, it is important to identify the protagonist: Hugo Gomes is currently a midfielder for the Benfica U-17 team and one of the most promising prospects in the club’s youth system at his level.

Numbers that Support the Investment

In the current season, Hugo Gomes has recorded 10 matches and 2 goals in the national U-17 championship, figures that reflect consistency, influence on the game, and ability to arrive in the area — essential attributes for a modern midfielder.

But the resume goes beyond the current season.

A 100% Development Path at Benfica

Hugo Gomes joined Benfica in the 2020/21 season, coming from AEF Faro, still as a U12 player. Initially, he was part of the Benfica Training and Development Centre in Faro, before making the leap to Benfica Campus in 2021/22.

Since then, his journey has been one of sustained growth and competitive success:

• National U17 Champion (2023/24)
• National U16 Youth Champion (2024/25)

These titles reinforce Hugo Gomes’ status as a player accustomed to demanding contexts and victory.

Training, Continuity, and Future Vision

By securing Hugo Gomes’ first professional contract, Benfica not only protects a promising asset but also reinforces a clear message: those who grow in Seixal, with performance and attitude, have space to dream bigger.

At 16 years old, the midfielder takes a decisive step. The future is still to be written — but the pen is already in the right hands.