José Mourinho surprises by calling up young talents for training at Benfica.

Benfica is counting down to one of the most anticipated matches of the season: the visit to FC Porto in the quarter-finals of the Taça de Portugal. With kick-off scheduled for 8:45 PM this Wednesday, José Mourinho has decided to do something unexpected by promoting a series of young talents to the first team training sessions. This strategy not only demonstrates the coach’s confidence in the new generation but also reveals a bold and innovative approach to squad management during times of injury and challenges.

The absence of key players, such as Samuel Soares, has forced Mourinho to integrate Arnas Voitinovicius into the group of goalkeepers. The young player, who has yet to have the opportunity to shine with the first team, is ready to show that he can be a viable alternative. In addition to him, central defenders Rui Silva and João Fonseca, along with defensive midfielder Martim Ferreira, have also been called up to strengthen a defense that has been struggling with the injuries of António Silva and Joshua Wynder.

Mourinho did not stop there. Central midfielder Miguel Figueiredo, one of the heroes of the under-17 national team that won the world title, has been summoned to add more depth to the midfield, especially while Enzo Barrenechea continues to fight to recover from a shoulder injury. Young forwards Tomás Soares and Stevan Manuel, who shone both at the World Cup and the European Championship, were also present, demonstrating that Benfica’s golden generation is ready to shine.

Among the most notable additions is Jelani Trevisan, the top scorer for Benfica B, who with five goals this season is making waves within the club. This second day of training is crucial for the Eagles, especially after the bitter defeat in the semi-finals of the League Cup against SC Braga, where they lost 1-3. The pressure is high, and Mourinho seems to be laying the groundwork for a revival.

Now let’s take a closer look at the young talents who are gaining prominence under Mourinho’s guidance:

**Rui Silva (centre-back)**

At 18 years old, Rui alternates between the under-23 defense and the B team, having started in five of the first six rounds of Liga 2. His return to Liga Revelação was prompted by the competition from Joshua Wynder, but Mourinho has already praised his potential, highlighting him as a promising centre-back after an important victory.

**João Fonseca (centre-back)**

At 19 years old and starting in 14 of the 17 rounds of Liga 2, Fonseca stands out for his ability to build play and positioning. After a solid training at Águeda, he is shining in Benfica’s youth setup and has even been on the bench during the visit to Juventus, a clear sign of the confidence Mourinho has in him.

**Martim Ferreira (defensive midfielder/centre-back)**

A native of Santarém, Ferreira is a bet from Nélson Veríssimo and has quickly become a pillar in Benfica B’s defense. His performance in Liga 2, especially in the last rounds, is indicative of his development and potential.

**Miguel Figueiredo (central midfielder)**

One of the standout players from the youth team that won the national championship, Figueiredo has already showcased his quality on the field, scoring crucial goals for the national team. At just 17 years old, he is considered one of the future cornerstones of Benfica.

**Stevan Manuel (winger)**

With successful stints in the under-17 national team, Manuel, the nephew of Renato Sanches, has shown significant growth in the under-23s, where he has already scored two goals in 12 matches. Mourinho’s confidence in integrating him into the first team is a clear recognition of his potential.

**Tomás Soares (striker)**

Son of former player Filipe Pastel, Soares has a pedigree that sets him apart. Since joining Benfica in 2020, he has established himself as a natural goalscorer, with an impressive tally in the Youth League and the under-23s.

José Mourinho is undoubtedly shaping the future of Benfica, harnessing young talents who can not only help the team overcome immediate challenges but also build a solid foundation for the years to come. With a blend of experience and youth, the reds are ready to face FC Porto, and the football world is eager to see how this new generation will perform in style.