António João Pereira de Albuquerque Tavares

António Silva is a Portuguese centre-back, born in Viseu on 30 October 2003. His full name is António João Pereira de Albuquerque Tavares, and he developed through Penalva do Castelo, Repesenses and Viseu United before joining Benfica’s academy in 2016. He progressed through Benfica’s youth structure and helped the club win the 2021–22 UEFA Youth League. Silva made his professional debut for Benfica B in April 2022 before moving into the senior side during the following season. In 2022–23, he became a regular starter and helped Benfica win the Primeira Liga title. His performances earned selection for Portugal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making him the country’s youngest World Cup player at 19 years and 33 days. Listed with Bournemouth, António Silva remains an established international defender whose career has developed rapidly from local football to the senior game.