Liga Portugal, the top football league in Portugal, has produced some of the finest talents in world football, including legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Figo, and João Félix. Known for its technical and tactical style of play, Liga Portugal consistently features standout performances from players who later become stars on the global stage. In the 2023/2024 season, several players are making a strong case for the title of the best player in the league. Among them, Gonçalo Ramos of Benfica stands out as the current best player.
Gonçalo Ramos (Benfica)
Gonçalo Ramos has emerged as the face of Benfica and one of the most exciting forwards in European football. The young striker was instrumental in Benfica’s success in recent seasons, including their Primeira Liga triumph in 2022/2023, and he has continued to perform at an elite level during the 2023/2024 campaign.
Why Gonçalo Ramos Stands Out:
- Clinical Finisher: Ramos is known for his exceptional goal-scoring ability. His positioning in the box, quick reactions, and ability to finish with both feet make him one of the most lethal strikers in Liga Portugal. Whether it’s tap-ins, headers, or long-range strikes, Ramos has shown that he can score from almost any position.
- Versatility in Attack: Not only is Ramos a prolific scorer, but he’s also capable of dropping deep to link up play and create opportunities for his teammates. His movement off the ball is intelligent, and he often creates space for the likes of João Mário and David Neres to operate in more dangerous areas.
- Strong Physical Presence: Ramos combines his technical ability with physicality, making him a difficult player to mark. His strength in holding up the ball allows Benfica to maintain possession in attacking areas, and his aerial prowess is a constant threat on set pieces.
Ramos’ Impact on Benfica:
Ramos has become the focal point of Roger Schmidt’s attack at Benfica. After a successful 2022/2023 season where Benfica won the league title, Ramos continues to shine in 2023/2024, leading the goal charts and helping Benfica stay competitive both domestically and in the UEFA Champions League. His ability to score crucial goals in key moments makes him indispensable to Benfica’s quest for back-to-back league titles and deep runs in European competitions.
Honorable Mentions
While Gonçalo Ramos is the standout player in Liga Portugal this season, several other players are making significant contributions to their respective teams:
Pedro Gonçalves (Sporting CP)
Pedro Gonçalves, also known as Pote, is one of the most exciting attacking midfielders in the league. Playing for Sporting CP, Pote is known for his versatility, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess. He can play in multiple positions, including as a winger or central attacking midfielder, and his ability to score goals from long range or inside the box makes him a constant threat. In the 2023/2024 season, Pote continues to be the driving force behind Sporting’s title challenge.
Otávio (FC Porto)
Otávio is one of FC Porto’s most influential players, known for his work rate, creativity, and leadership. The Brazilian-born Portuguese international has been a consistent performer for Porto over the years, and his ability to dictate the tempo of the game from midfield is key to their success. Otávio’s vision and passing range make him one of the best playmakers in Liga Portugal, and he remains crucial to Porto’s title ambitions in the 2023/2024 season.
João Mário (Benfica)
João Mário had a standout 2022/2023 season for Benfica, where he played a crucial role in their title-winning campaign. The experienced midfielder continues to be a key figure for the club, contributing with both goals and assists. Known for his technical skill, composure on the ball, and ability to dictate the pace of play, João Mário remains one of the top players in Liga Portugal this season.
Ricardo Horta (SC Braga)
Ricardo Horta is a pivotal player for SC Braga, consistently delivering goals and assists for the team. His attacking prowess and ability to play in multiple positions across the front line make him one of the most versatile players in the league. Horta’s creativity and eye for goal have helped Braga maintain a competitive edge in the top four of Liga Portugal, and his leadership on the pitch is invaluable to the team’s success.
Conclusion
As of the 2023/2024 season, Gonçalo Ramos stands out as the best football player in Liga Portugal. His goal-scoring ability, physical presence, and versatility in attack make him the most impactful player in the league. His performances for Benfica have been crucial in their domestic and European campaigns, and he remains one of the hottest prospects in European football.
However, Liga Portugal is rich with talent, and players like Pedro Gonçalves, Otávio, João Mário, and Ricardo Horta are also making significant contributions to their teams. Each of these players brings something unique to the league, adding to the overall quality and competitiveness of Portuguese football.
