Manuel Jorge Silva

Manuel Jorge Silva, commonly known as Manu, is a Portuguese midfielder whose game has developed around defensive responsibility and positional flexibility. Born in Santa Maria de Lamas, he began his youth development at União de Lamas before joining Feirense in 2012. He progressed through Feirense’s academy and entered senior football there, making his professional debut in Liga Portugal 2 in 2021. Manu moved to Vitória de Guimarães in 2023, stepping into the Primeira Liga and expanding his role between defensive midfield and centre-back. His work combines tackling, aerial strength and secure passing, allowing him to protect the defence while helping his team retain possession and control the tempo. He joined Benfica in 2025, continuing the progression of a tall, versatile midfielder whose development has taken him from local football in Aveiro to one of Portugal’s leading clubs.