Portuguese Football Union’s Player Internship Program: 22 Find Clubs, 29 Still Searching

The Portuguese Football Union’s annual Player Internship Program, which began in July, has successfully placed 22 out of 51 participating players. The program, which provides training and matches, helps unemployed footballers find clubs. However, 29 participants are still seeking a team. While the summer transfer window has closed, the Union emphasizes that the 29 unemployed players can still join a new team under the ‘unemployed player’ status. The program, led by former Benfica U23 coach Paulo Lopes, involved 11 practice matches against teams of varying levels and seven training sessions on various topics. The placement rate this year, at 43.14%, is lower than the average 62% achieved over the past 21 editions. However, the Union’s president, Joaquim Evangelista, expressed satisfaction with the program’s overall achievement, stating that the program’s goal was accomplished. He emphasized their continued support for the remaining players, assuring them that they will find solutions for their careers. Among the 22 players who found placements, midfielder Felipe Ryan (Persekat, Indonesia) and forwards Carlos Djalo (FC Atese, Italy), Evandro Brandao (PSIS Semarang, Indonesia), and Mario Ferreira (Polisportiva Gioiosa, Italy) have secured international contracts. The remaining 18 have been placed in Portuguese clubs across various divisions, from Liga 3 to district championships.