EXCLUSIVE: Benfica’s Vitor Vinha Discusses Youth League Semi-Final and Collaborating with Mourinho

As Vitor Vinha aims to lead Benfica’s youth team to another Youth League triumph, he underscores the importance of the club’s distinctive approach, which focuses on the comprehensive development of players, their competitive spirit, and equipping them to face the challenges of elite football.

The young coach notes the strengthening ties between the academy and the senior team, referencing the recent introductions of several young talents into the first team and the encouraging influence of Jose Mourinho overseeing their progress.

Through tangible examples and a well-defined strategy, a unified objective emerges: nurturing talent and securing the club’s future at the pinnacle of the sport.

‘A Crucial Competition for Us’

Benfica has built a strong reputation in this competition, making it crucial for youth teams across Europe. What does your participation say about the efforts invested in Benfica’s youth setup?

Vitor Vinha: “Our consistent showing in every edition of the Youth League, including four finals—one of which led to a trophy—illustrates the significant work undertaken by Benfica in nurturing young talent for top-tier football.

“Every young player who joins the Benfica Campus aspires to compete in the Youth League. Our finals and appearances are a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in this process to develop these athletes.

“This competition is vital for us and contributes significantly to our players’ development. We are proud and privileged to participate, and we have a storied history in this tournament to uphold and expand upon.

The Youth League presents the players with experiences quite different from those found in the national leagues, especially with the inclusion of top talents. What advantages do you believe these European matches bring to player development?

“The Youth League stands as a significant tournament, mirroring the Champions League in many respects. In European football, the Champions League reigns supreme, and this competition reflects that elite level, showcasing the best training programmes, players, and teams.

“It offers a glimpse into the future since many of the participants eventually rise to the highest levels. For instance, some players who featured in this season’s Youth League have already debuted in the Champions League.

“In essence, it serves as a preview of what may become the next Champions League. Watching the progression of both players and teams is truly compelling, sometimes even surprising.

“While we understand our own environment well, facing other teams allows us to observe different styles and talents, presenting intriguing opportunities for analysis and evaluation. This competition is remarkable for player growth, functioning as a window to the Champions League and revealing the elite’s future.

Before shifting focus to Club Brugge, your semi-final opponents, could you provide a brief review of your team’s journey so far? Notably, you’ve had some excellent performances, a tough quarter-final against Inter Milan…

“Overall, I would say our record is very encouraging. We had a splendid group stage, losing only once under unusual circumstances against Chelsea. The result didn’t accurately reflect the competition between the two teams, as it revealed efficiency rather than overall performance. We had ample opportunities to score more.

“Chelsea capitalised on almost all their chances. However, that game served to refocus us and made our young players aware of the improvements needed on our path forward.

“We must also remember that the group stage coincided with the Under-17 World Cup, during which we emerged victorious with nine Benfica players participating. Many players remained behind to compete in the Youth League, where they had to step up as many were starters.

“Arriving at the Final Four, we are now a solid team, equipped with many talented players and boasting the highest scoring record in any edition of the competition, which is a significant achievement. As we prepare for this decisive week, we are filled with ambition and determination to overcome Brugge and reach the final, which remains our goal.”

What challenges do you expect for this upcoming match, and how can Benfica assert its advantage?

“Brugge is a formidable opponent, their record showing striking similarities to ours, with eight wins and only one loss. They have the strongest defence in the competition, conceding just five goals, which highlights their resilience and the caliber of their individual players, particularly those in their attacking line who possess an excellent ability to advance both individually and as a unit.

“However, more crucial than Brugge is our own team, what we can produce, and the individual strengths within our squad. We have exhibited true team spirit, functioning as a cohesive unit, which has been fundamental to our success thus far.

“If we maintain our high standards, unity, and ability, I am confident we can surpass this opponent, which is precisely what we aim to achieve.”

Is repeating the 2022 feat, when Benfica clinched this title, among your ambitions?

“Before aspiring to replicate that success, our immediate focus is reaching the final. Our primary aim is on Brugge, preparing thoroughly for this encounter, identifying their strengths and vulnerabilities. We aim to conceal our weaknesses while implementing our own style of play and demonstrating what it means to be Benfica.

“Our goal is clearly to win and progress to the final. Once we’re there, we can contemplate the next steps. For now, our sole focus is on Brugge because if we don’t overcome them, there will be nothing else to consider—only Brugge.”

Do young players trained at Benfica believe they have a clear pathway to the first team if they prove their worth?

“Absolutely. Upon joining Benfica, every youth player knows about numerous success stories, such as Joao Neves, Cancelo, Antonio Silva, Tomas Araujo, and Samu, among others. These stories serve as inspiration for the youth academy.

“They understand that by dedicating themselves to their development across various facets—physically, technically, tactically, mentally, and socially—they are closer to realising their dream of debuting for the first team.

“This journey, of course, is a process. Not every player will make it to the first team, and they are aware of this from the start. Regardless, they know that even if they don’t reach that pinnacle, they will emerge better equipped for successful careers, thanks to their time at Benfica. This is an aspiration we support at every step.”

Benfica invests heavily in player development. Do you foresee a greater emphasis on homegrown talent in the first-team setup in the future?

“Yes, undoubtedly. This is a key focus for us. It is one of the club’s primary objectives to cultivate young players who will eventually progress to the first team and the upper echelons of football. We work diligently towards this goal every day.

“The club’s structure is designed to meet the demands and facilitate the development of our young players. We’ve seen considerable success in this area and aim to produce even more talent for the first team.”

‘Mourinho Inspired My Coaching Career’

“This experience has been incredible; I often compare it to a lifelong relationship culminating in marriage—it’s been immensely fulfilling. Growing alongside Benfica and contributing to the development of our young players brings me immense joy.

“To don the sacred Benfica crest and come to work every day is gratifying. I’m extremely pleased and grateful to the club for providing me this opportunity and for being part of this significant institution.”

How has your career at Benfica influenced your growth as a coach?

“It has profoundly shaped me. Working at an elite club like Benfica offers invaluable lessons. My journey started as a professional footballer, assisted by numerous outstanding coaches from whom I learned a great deal.

“However, my growth has continued to accelerate since joining Benfica. The opportunity to immerse myself in this environment, engage with players across all levels, and develop in various capacities is remarkable.

“My goal remains to contribute while also continuing to learn, evolve, and advance on this journey.”

Is it particularly significant to be associated with a club where Jose Mourinho is a revered figure?

“Indeed. Personally, I believe that many coaches, like myself, found their inspiration to pursue coaching after watching Mourinho. He has inspired not just me, but a generation of Portuguese coaches.

“Having regular access to one of the greatest coaches in history, particularly one renowned for his achievements, is invaluable. Observing his methods and discussing our work is an extraordinary opportunity to learn.

“He represents greatness, both for Benfica and in the football world, and their connection is remarkable.”

Does having someone like Mourinho closely following the youth teams increase the sense of responsibility?

“Absolutely. Mourinho’s engagement is consistent, and he maintains a close watch on our youth setup. His extensive knowledge of the club and the players is evident, as he is quick to highlight those he has introduced to the first team.

“For me, it’s an extraordinary experience to be in proximity to one of the best in the game. To receive feedback or assessments from him is immensely valuable. We are on this journey together, which is tremendous, and we must continue progressing.”

To conclude, what message would you like to convey to Benfica’s supporters?

“First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for the unwavering support our team has received; it’s been integral to our journey. I speak on behalf of Benfica to extend thanks. The fans are an intrinsic part of our existence.

“Football is an emotional sport, and the supporters contribute immensely to that passion. They are an essential part of our daily drive. Benfica fans are demanding, which serves as a tremendous motivator for us.

“I hope they will turn out in droves in Lausanne. It’s wonderful to see the mobilization of fans already reported, and I encourage everyone to come out and make their presence felt, covering the stadium in red, so they can witness the growth of this team and our young players.

“Let their support drive us to victory because having them with us significantly eases our path. For those who can’t attend, I urge them to follow our matches on television and other platforms—stay connected, support us, and keep that high bar because it fuels our desire to improve.”