Jaden Umeh moves closer to creating history at Benfica

December 3, 2025

Ireland talent Jaden Umeh has taken a step closer to creating history after earning a promotion to Benfica’s B side.

The 17-year-old is one of the country’s brightest talents as he continues to impress with the Portuguese giants.

Despite his age, Umeh’s potential within the club has not gone unnoticed, having represented Benfica’s Under-23 side throughout the campaign.

Now his performances have been rewarded as he’s set to represent the club’s B side for the first time on Wednesday evening.

Umeh has been named as part of the squad to take on Nottingham Forest in the Premier League International Cup, taking place at Manfield’s home stadium.

Jaden Umeh aiming to create history

The dynamic winger progressed through the academy at boyhood club Cork and became the youngest player to play for the club at the age of 15 years and 230 days.

He then became their youngest ever goalscorer at 16 years at 14 days when he struck against Wexford.

Umeh moved to Benfica’s youth academy in August 2024 and became a key feature in their Under-19 side, featuring in the UEFA Youth League and scoring against Chelsea.

A tricky forward can play on either side or through the middle, Umeh is a hugely talented prospect. He’s strong, quick and has all the attributes to make it to the very top.

That was evident during the Under-17 World Cup when he scored Ireland’s opening goal of the tournament in their 4-1 victory over Panama.

He also sensationally buried a curling effort into the top corner, which was ruled out for offside.

While he still has plenty of developing to do, Umeh has set his sights on becoming the first Irishman to ever represent the Portuguese club at a senior level.

Jaden Umeh’s disallowed goal yesterday was absolutely OUTRAGEOUS!

Where does this rank in greatest disallowed goals in Irish history? pic.twitter.com/Qp6HLQGWxz

— Rep of Ireland Player Tracker (@reptracker) November 6, 2025

Umeh happy to take risks

Leaving home at the age of 16 and moving to another country without knowing the language only epitomises Umeh’s impressive desire to step out of his comfort zone.

Given Benfica’s history of producing top talent, the move could very well pay off.

The likes of Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva and Joao Felix all kick-started their careers with the Portuguese giants.

When asked about his decision to move to Benfica during the Under-17 World Cup, Umeh told FIFA: “The stadium is wonderful. I took the risk by going there at 16 because I want to progress and develop, especially in a big club. I think it was the best decision for me.

“The standard, the facilities there, it is amazing.

“Everything is prepared for you, and all you need to do is just play. Just perform.

“And ever since I moved over, everyone has treated me right. I had a great reception, and I thank everyone at Benfica for that. My Portuguese is coming along too!”