For years, Cristiano Ronaldo has been the face of Portuguese football. He’s broken records, broken the hearts of the opposition - and is always up there, topping the odds of whatever league he happens to be playing in - the Premier League odds, La Liga and of course the Champions League odds due to the many spectacles he’s showcased to us over the decades.
But, as we know, football never stands still - and he’s 40. The good news is that there’s a whole new wave of talent ready and waiting to carry the Portuguese footballing torch into the future. These young stars are already starting to make their mark on both the domestic and international stages… and it’s exciting to see where they’re going.
So, let’s take a look at some of the most promising and exciting Portuguese players all ready and waiting to step into Cristiano Ronaldo’s shoes.
João Neves
He may barely be out of his teens, but at just 20 years old, João Neves has already become a big name in European football, first for Benfica and then for PSG. Known for being a hard worker, his excellent passing skills, and his undeniable tactical intelligence, he has everything it takes to be a future national team leader. He has the ability to dictate tempo and switch play seamlessly, which makes him seem a lot older than his years.
A lot of midfielders his age struggle with decision-making, but he has a composure under pressure that really stands out - and in the coming years, as he plays for France’s biggest team, we expect his reputation to grow… and his price tag to follow.
António Silva
Central defender António Silva is another player making waves, playing for S.L. Benfica. Tall, strong, and disciplined, this is a player who knows how to read the game and can nullify even the most fearsome of attackers.
He has already played several games in the Champions League, which have shown that he knows how to handle the best opposition in the sport. And, with more experience, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that he could end up becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after defenders.
Gonçalo Ramos
From a defender to a goal machine. Gonçalo Ramos plays for PSG and is starting to earn a reputation for being one of Portugal’s most dangerous strikers. After he burst onto the scene playing for Benfica, it wasn’t long before he caught the attention of those at PSG - and he’s now competing with some of the best forwards in the world.
He somehow has a knack for being in the right place at the right time - and this, combined with his clinical finishing, makes him a nightmare to defend against. He’s already shown he can deliver in big matches, and at just 24 years old, there’s plenty of room to grow.
Fábio Vieira
Currently impressing the Premier League fans with Arsenal, Fábio Vieira is a 25-year-old midfielder who’s incredibly inventive and has a keen eye for a killer pass. He’s adjusted well to the physicality of the EPL, and he has a vision and technique that are undeniable.
This player has a versatility that means he can play as a number 10, a winger, and even in a deep playmaking role - and if he gets enough regular playtime in the right environment, he could make a huge mark on Portuguese football.
Nuno Mendes
At just 23 years of age, many already consider Nuno Mendes to be one of the best left-backs in the world. He has an explosive pace, a dribbling ability, and a defensive awareness that make him the whole footballing package.
Currently a star of PSG (alongside several other compadres), he plays consistently well against the highest level opponents in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League.
Vitinha
There seems to be an ongoing theme here - as we have yet another PSG star. Vitinha has an impressive blend of creativity, work ethic, and technical precision. He’s comfortable in possession and confident under pressure - which makes him the kind of midfielder that makes his teammates better.
As he gains even more experience, we think he’s going to be one of the stars of Portugal’s starting XI.
Diogo Costa
It’s not often that a goalkeeper manages to make headlines at such a young age, but Diogo Costa has been defying expectations for years. He may still be just 25, but the FC Porto shot-stopper is already considered to be one of the best young keepers in Europe, with his lightning-fast reflexes and excellent command of his area. He also has a penalty-saving record that’s made him a hero for both his club and his country.
Pedro Neto
Chelsea’s Pedro Neto has an undeniable talent. He’s quick, skilful, and knows how to deliver the most incredible crosses. This player is a threat every single time he gets the ball.
At Wolverhampton Wanderers, it was clear that he had the potential to play for one of Europe’s biggest clubs - and Chelsea were ready and waiting for him. With a dribbling style and an ability to create chances out of nothing, Neto is undoubtedly going to be a massive name in Portuguese football.
The Next Era
Ronaldo might be on the way out, but it’s fair to say that the future of football in Portugal looks bright. These are players who are not only smashing the domestic leagues but are also proving themselves on the European stage. We think that the legacy of Portuguese football is in safe hands… and the future looks to be every bit as thrilling as the Ronaldo years.